What aerodynamic change occurs when the flaps of a Cessna 152 are extended?

When the flaps of a Cessna 152 are extended, the primary aerodynamic change is that both lift and drag increase. Flaps are designed to modify the wing's airflow characteristics during various phases of flight, particularly during takeoff and landing.

Extending the flaps changes the wing profile, which enhances the wing’s lift-generating capacity at lower speeds. This is crucial for allowing the aircraft to fly safely and effectively at reduced speeds during approach and landing. The additional lift helps in maintaining controlled flight in these critical phases while also enabling a steeper descent without an increase in airspeed.

At the same time, the increase in the wing’s surface area and the alteration of airflow over the wing results in an increase in drag. This added drag is beneficial because it helps to slow the aircraft down when preparing for landing or during lower-speed maneuvers.

The other answer choices do address individual aspects of flap extension but do not encompass the comprehensive effect. For instance, while increased lift at lower speeds is correct, it does not account for the corresponding increase in drag that occurs simultaneously, making it an incomplete answer. Similarly, while decreased stall speed is a result of increased lift, it does not cover the drag aspect and therefore can’t account for the