|
|
|
Fuel
The Concorde carries about 119,500 liters (31,569 gallons) of fuel and burns
about 25,629 liters (6,771 gallons) per hour in the air. But fuel isn't just
for flying. It's also used to balance the plane.
As the Concorde flies at supersonic speeds, the center of lift shifts towards
the back of the plane, making the nose heavy and the plane unbalanced. To keep
the plane balanced as it accelerates during flight, fuel is moved from the
front to the rear. Transferring the fuel shifts the center of gravity. By
adjusting the center of gravity at the same time as the center of lift shifts,
the plane remains balanced. When the Concorde slows down, the center of lift
moves forward and fuel is transferred again—this time from back to front—to
maintain balance.
- During supersonic flight, center of lift shifts back.
- Fuel is transferred back to shift the center of gravity and balance the
aircraft.
- During deceleration, center of lift shifts forward.
- Fuel is transferred forward to shift the center of gravity and balance the
aircraft.
(back)
Future Trip |
Next Generation |
Anatomy of the Concorde
Teacher's Guide |
Resources |
Transcript |
Supersonic Spies Home
Editor's Picks |
Previous Sites |
Join Us/E-mail |
TV/Web Schedule
About NOVA |
Teachers |
Site Map |
Shop |
Jobs |
Search |
To print
PBS Online |
NOVA Online |
WGBH
© | Updated November 2000
|
|
|