The way helicopters are able to operate

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the mechanics of helicopter operation, specifically the interaction between the main rotor and the helicopter body when the rotor's radial velocity (omega) is increased in-flight. According to Newton's Third Law, the torque exerted by the main rotor creates an equal and opposite torque on the helicopter, causing it to rotate in the opposite direction. To counteract this effect, helicopters utilize a tail rotor, which generates a side force, necessitating a slight lean into the thrust direction for stable hovering.

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  • Understanding of Newton's Third Law of Motion
  • Familiarity with torque and its effects on rotational motion
  • Basic knowledge of helicopter rotor dynamics
  • Awareness of helicopter flight mechanics and control systems
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  • Study the principles of torque and its application in aviation
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Aerospace engineers, aviation enthusiasts, and students studying helicopter mechanics will benefit from this discussion.

Ry122
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If a helicopter was to increase its omega of blades while in the air, and not completely do it while fixed to the ground before taking off, why would this cause the body and rotor to rotate in opposite directions while the helicopter is airbourne? This is assuming no air resistance. And no bearing friction. omega = radial velocity
 
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It's Newton's 3rd law applied to torque. The helicopter exerts a torque on the main rotor, and the main rotor exerts and equal and opposing torque onto the helicopter. Usually a tail rotor is used to counter the torque exerted by the main rotor onto the helicopter, which results in a net side force, so for a true hover, the helicopter has to lean a bit into the direction of thrust from the tail rotor.
 

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