Remove Center of Gravity Remove Payload Remove Torque
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The Role of Newton’s Third Law in Aviation

Pilot Institute

If we understand it well enough, we can harness this phenomenon to help us even defy gravity. Developments in aircraft design and engine technology have allowed us to fly farther, faster, and carry more payload. Helicopters use a small rotor mounted on the tail that produces sideways thrust to counter the main rotors torque reaction.

Lift 52
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Nothing Small About It

Plane and Pilot

Another advantage of the counter-rotating props is the elimination of torque roll. This is the tendency to dig in the left tip float during takeoff while countering engine torque. Nudging it back to center slid the ball a diameter the other way—trying to corral it in the middle was a bit pointless as it didn’t want to live there.