What happens to the lift/drag ratio when weight increases?

The lift/drag ratio is a critical parameter in aerodynamics, representing the efficiency of an aircraft's lift generation relative to its drag. When an aircraft's weight increases, the factors influencing this ratio become critical to understanding aerodynamics at varying flight conditions.

As weight increases, the required lift to maintain level flight also increases in accordance with the principles of equilibrium. To generate the additional lift needed to support the increased weight, the aircraft must either increase its angle of attack or its airspeed, both of which can lead to an increase in drag. As the drag increases relative to the lift generated, the lift/drag ratio diminishes.

When the lift/drag ratio decreases, it indicates that the aircraft is becoming less efficient at generating lift relative to the drag it experiences. This is particularly evident during various phases of flight, especially during takeoff and landing where weight dynamics can heavily influence performance.

Thus, when weight increases, the lift/drag ratio decreases, making the assertion that it remains the same inaccurate. Understanding this relationship is essential for effective flight operations and optimizing performance.