A helicopter consumes energy while hovering motionless because its rotor blades are continuously doing work to push air down, counteracting gravity. Although the helicopter itself is not moving in a vertical sense, it is actively displacing air, which requires energy. This concept parallels the fatigue experienced when holding a weight still, as energy is still expended despite no visible movement. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding frames of reference and the nature of work in physics, particularly in aerodynamics. Ultimately, a helicopter's ability to hover relies on its engine and rotor system, which must remain operational to maintain that position.
