What occurs when the angle of attack is changed on a constant speed propeller?

When the angle of attack is changed on a constant speed propeller, it directly impacts the thrust produced by the propeller and, consequently, alters the drag on the aircraft. Adjusting the propeller's angle of attack affects how efficiently it operates in the given airspeed and can lead to changes in rotational speed (RPM) as the power produced by the engine adjusts to maintain the desired thrust.

In a constant speed propeller system, the propeller governor automatically adjusts the blade angle to maintain a set RPM despite changes in the load. If the angle of attack of the propeller blades increases, it generates more thrust but also increases drag. If the additional drag causes a reduction in RPM, the governor will sense this change and will adjust the blade angle accordingly to return to the desired RPM setting.

This ability to maintain a constant RPM while managing varying thrust demands is crucial for optimal aircraft performance during different phases of flight. Options related to altitude, engine temperature, or fuel mixture do not directly correlate with the mechanics of changing propeller angle of attack, which is primarily focused on thrust and drag alterations.