ORIGINAL: speedracerntrixie
Over in the gas engine forum they started a thread about engine myths. I thought it would be fun to do the same here about aerodynamic myths. I will kick it off with a couple.
1. A nose heavy airplane is more stable and easier to fly.
2. A heavy airplane flys better in the wind.
Add some or debate whats here.....................
Technically both are true... but the minute you add in phrases like "easier to fly" and "flies better" it becomes a matter of personal perspective. And it also depends what the task in hand is.
1.) Adding noseweight (or more correctly: moving the CG forward) increases the Static Stability Margin. The model will become more stable in pitch. That means it will 'hug' a certain airspeed. But it may well make it 'harder to fly', causing what is sometimes called ballooning, a nose up pitch response to increased airspeed. It's a matter of perspective. It also increases tail loads and trim drag, which could even mean the tail stalling in extreme cases. There is a sweet spot between not enough stability and excessive stability.
2.) A heavier aeroplane (technically: a higher wingloading) makes 'penetration' easier and reduces disturbances due to gusts. It's not just about wing loading though - the airfoil (particularly camber) is also a factor. Whether or not it 'flies better' depends on the task you want to achieve. It may make landing faster than is comfortable...