AFOQT Practice Test

Which wing planform is known for being the simplest and highly inefficient for aviation use?

1. Elliptical Wing

2. Rectangular Wing

3. Tapered Wing

4. Swept Wing

The correct answer is: Rectangular Wing

The rectangular wing planform is recognized for its simplicity in design and construction, making it a common choice for many basic aircraft. Its straightforward design consists of a constant chord along the wing's span, which means that the width of the wing does not taper. While this simplicity can be advantageous for certain applications, this design is also inherently less aerodynamically efficient compared to other wing shapes, particularly at higher speeds. In contrast, other wing shapes, like the elliptical, tapered, and swept wings, are designed to enhance aerodynamic performance, reduce drag, and improve lift characteristics, especially during specific phases of flight. These features make those wing types more suitable for advanced aviation applications and higher performance requirements. Thus, while the rectangular wing may be easy to manufacture and analyze, its inefficiency makes it less favorable for modern aircraft design.