Chapter 2 - Aerodynamics of Flight
Center of Gravity
The center of gravity (CG) is the theoretical point
of concentrated weight of the aircraft. It is the point
within the PPC about which all the moments trying to
rotate it are balanced. The most obvious difference in
the center of gravity for a PPC is the vertical position
compared to an airplane, as it is much lower than the
wing. The Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge
accurately states the center of gravity is generally
in the vertical center of the fuselage. The same
is true for the PPC. However, the PPC wing is high
above the fuselage (cart) creating the unique pendulum
effect flying characteristics of the PPC (which
will be covered in detail later).
In a two-seat PPC, the second seat is typically behind
the pilot’s seat, and the center of gravity is usually
located directly over the rear passenger seat. Therefore,
the center of gravity location does not change
significantly with or without a passenger. Fuel tanks
are typically located near the center of gravity so
any differences in fuel quantity will not significantly
change the center of gravity fore and aft with different
fuel quantities.
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