FAA Ground School Practice Test

How does the wake turbulence vortex circulate around each wingtip?

1. Inward, downward, and around each tip

2. Outward, upward, and around each tip

3. Outward, downward, and around each tip

4. Only upward and downward

The correct answer is: Outward, upward, and around each tip

The wake turbulence vortices created by an aircraft's wings behave in a very specific manner as a result of the pressure differential between the upper and lower surfaces of the wings. As the aircraft generates lift, the higher pressure air beneath the wing flows around the wingtips to the lower pressure area above the wing. In this process, the vortices circulate outward and upward from each wingtip. This upward circulation occurs because the air is being drawn up from beneath the wing, while the outward movement is due to the need for the air to move around the wingtips in response to the pressure differences. Consequently, the vortices can create significant turbulence in the flight path of following aircraft, especially during a landing or takeoff when the aircraft is at lower speeds and altitudes. Understanding the behavior of wake turbulence is crucial for safe aircraft operation, particularly in terms of maintaining safe separation distances during takeoff and landing. The specific circulation pattern of the vortices has important implications for flight safety, especially for smaller aircraft following larger ones.