effect of weight and cruise level on performance
I'm studying for my atpl aerodynamics exam and am confused about a few things.
1. As weight reduces due to fuel burn off, the aircraft can be flown at a slower mach no. to preserve the angle of attack that gives 1.32 Vimd (for max range cruise). True or False?
2. As weight reduces due to fuel burn off, the aircraft can climb to higher altitude and cruise at the same (constant) mach no. as before. True or False?
3. If 2 above is true, then will the aircraft be cruising at the optimum angle of attack that gives 1.32 Vimd for max range? Yes or No?
4. How does the higher altitude affect fuel flow (and thus SFC) when cruising at 1.32 Vimd? Increase or decrease?
The ATPL text I have waffles on too much in a confusing manner. Hope someone can give me a "keep it simple" answer. Thanks.