Which speed is greater during a climb, best angle speed or best rate speed?

When discussing the speeds during a climb, it’s crucial to understand the definitions of best angle speed and best rate speed. Best angle speed (Vx) is the airspeed that provides the greatest altitude gain over the shortest horizontal distance. In contrast, best rate speed (Vy) is the airspeed that results in the maximum altitude gain over time.

During a climb, the best rate speed is greater than the best angle speed. This is because best rate speed is optimized for time efficiency, allowing the aircraft to ascend more altitude in a given time frame, regardless of the horizontal distance covered. Essentially, at the best rate speed, the climb is more focused on gaining altitude quickly rather than optimizing the profile of the climb in terms of horizontal distance.

This means that the correct choice highlights the concept that during a climb, the goal is often to maximize altitude gain in the shortest amount of time, which aligns with the characteristics of best rate speed. The emphasis on gaining more height over time rather than distance effectively explains why this is the correct answer.