FAA Aircraft Dispatcher Practice Exam

What is a characteristic of Clear Ice?

1. It takes the shape of the surface area

2. It is transparent and light

3. It forms quickly in warm conditions

4. It is easy to identify during flight

The correct answer is: It takes the shape of the surface area

Clear ice is a type of ice that forms on surfaces such as aircraft wings when supercooled water droplets freeze upon contact. The characteristic of taking the shape of the surface area means that it adheres very closely to the contours of the aircraft. This is significant because it can create aerodynamic challenges, as the formation of clear ice alters the airflow over wings and control surfaces, potentially leading to loss of lift. The other characteristics mentioned, such as transparency, formation in warm conditions, and ease of identification, do not accurately describe clear ice. While it may appear somewhat transparent, it is not light and often difficult to detect from the cockpit during flight. Additionally, clear ice forms at temperatures below freezing, typically in conditions where supercooled droplets are present, rather than in warm conditions.