Private Pilot Private Exam

If the outside air temperature at a given altitude is warmer than standard, the density altitude is...

1. Lower than pressure altitude

2. Equal to pressure altitude

3. Higher than pressure altitude

4. Unrelated to pressure altitude

The correct answer is: Higher than pressure altitude

When the outside air temperature at a particular altitude is warmer than the standard temperature, it results in a higher density altitude. This is because density altitude is affected by both pressure altitude and outside air temperature. Density altitude is essentially the altitude at which the air density is equivalent to the standard atmosphere. When temperatures rise above standard levels, the air becomes less dense even at the same pressure altitude. As a result, the effective altitude, or density altitude, increases. Understanding this concept is crucial for pilots, as density altitude directly influences aircraft performance, including engine power, climb rate, and takeoff distance. Warmer temperatures can lead to decreased aircraft performance, as the engines may not perform as efficiently in less dense air. In scenarios where the outside air temperature is warmer than standard, density altitude increases, making it higher than pressure altitude, confirming that the answer aligns correctly with this principle.