CULTURAL QA 08-2023-03

Q1         Why do planes stop before takeoff?

A1          Vishnu Ravi, Aerospace Engineer |Aviation Enthusiast & Content 
Creator Tue

When it comes toensuring a safe and smooth flight, stopping before take-off is 
crucial for severalcompelling reasons:

Configuration: Before embarking on their journey,planes make a momentary stop 
to configure flaps. These movable wing surfacesplay a vital role in generating 
the lift needed during take-off, ensuring aseamless departure.

Clearance and Communication: The expertise of askilled pilot extends beyond 
just maneuvering the aircraft. They need to obtain clearancefrom air traffic 
controllers and engage in essential radio communications withthe destination. 
This meticulous process guarantees that all flightpaths are secure and 
coordinated.

Safety Checks: Your safety is our priority, which iswhy we conduct rigorous 
safety checks before take-off. Particularly for piston engines, we run them 
athigh power to detect any potential issues that might hinder a safe journey.

Emergency Preparedness: In any unforeseenemergency, your experienced pilot 
remains vigilant and prepared. Whether it'sengine failure, adverse weather 
conditions, loss of control, or technicalmalfunctions, they can promptly abort 
take-off and apply the brakes to ensureyour safety.

V1 Speed: The decision to proceed with take off orabort is influenced by the V1 
speed, the maximum speed at which take off canstill be safely aborted. Before 
reaching this critical point, the pilot has fullcontrol to make the right call.

Not Every PlaneStops: I acknowledge that not all planesrequire a complete stop 
before take-off. Rolling take-offsare common, where clearance is obtained while 
the plane is already aligned withthe runway, allowing for a smooth and 
continuous departure.

The Runway's Role: The length of the runway is apivotal factor for most planes 
to gain sufficient speed for lift to overpowerthe force of weight, allowing for 
a successful takeoff.

In conclusion, the brief pause before take off allowspilots to configure flaps, 
communicate effectively,ensure safety, and be prepared for emergencies. Trust 
in our experiencedpilots, as they make well-informed decisions based on V1 
speed and potentialissues to prioritize your safety and deliver an unparalleled 
flight experience.

Q2         How does hard water affect your waterheater?

A2          Venkateswara Swamy Swarna, FormerScientist, Metallurgist, Quality / 
NDT Manager at Department of Atomic Energy,India (1967–2008)7h

Scales form on the heating elements and on the tankwalls.That can lead to 
corrosion and also loss of efficiency of the heater. Thus theoverall life of 
the heater gets reduced.

2nd answer -Trainee UP2Tech,7h

Hard water candamage your water heater by formingmineral deposits that reduce 
its efficiency and lifespan. Sediment build up can lead toincreased energy 
consumption and frequent repairs. Regular maintenanceis essential to mitigate 
these effects. 

3rd answer- Ritwik Sunny, Former CustomerSupport Executive at Ashok Leyland 5h

Hard water ruinswater heaters. The sediment build up left behind in the water 
heater cannegatively affect the components inside of the unit.

My note- The formation of sediments and mineralbuild up interact with 
insulation of coil and minute insulation removal occurs.When  heater isswitched 
ON and washing machine is also working this low insulation creates lightcurrent 
on the metal parts of the washing machine and very light shock. 

Before voltageappearing in water tap this occurs. Just by switching OFF heater 
the currentdisappears from the metal parts of the washing machine. 

Immediately theheater coil has to be replaced.Theformation of minerals etc. is 
more if hot water remains in the water heater. 

Why this lowcurrent first does not appear in water tap is a mystery to me. 
Learnt memberscan enlighten me.

Q3         What are the consequences of the waterinlet hose falling off a 
washing machine?

A3          Gopala Krishnan,Former AssistantGeneral Manager 1996-2004 at 
Department of Telecom (1966–2004)Just now

Water inlethose falling from machine end is not heard. It is tightlyfitted. If 
it falls from machine end, immediately the company engineer may becalled  to 
attend it.

Fallingoff from the tap end is common after years, best replace the connector.

Q4         How is pure gold molded if it has anextremely low melting point?

A4          Intelligent Alien, Silk Road, Wed

Did you know thatgold is also one of the most malleable and ductile metals?

That means it can be hammered into thin sheets or drawninto thin wires without 
breaking.

In fact, one ounceof gold can be stretched into a wire that is 50 miles long.

But I digress.Youwant to know how to mold pure gold, not stretch it.

Well, the answer issimple: you need to melt it first. And yes, you are 
right:pure gold has a relatively low melting point compared to other metals.

It melts at1,064 °C (1,948°F or 1,337 K), which is lower than iron (1,538 °C), 
and copper(1,085 °C).

But don't let thatfool you into thinking that melting gold is easy. You 
stillneed a lot of heat and a proper equipment to do it safely and efficiently.

You see, gold isnot only malleable and ductile, but also very dense and 
conductive. That means it takes a lot of energy to heat it up, and it also 
transfers heat veryquickly.

So if you try tomelt gold with a regular torch or a stove, you will end up 
wasting a lot offuel and time, and you might also damage your gold or your 
container.

Not to mention therisk of burning yourself or starting a fire.

To melt gold youneed three things: a crucible, a flux, and a furnace.

A crucible is acontainer that can withstand high temperatures and hold your 
gold while itmelts.

It should bemade of ceramic or graphite,dependingon the type of gold you have 
(yellow or white).

A flux is a substance that helps remove impuritiesfrom your gold and prevent 
oxidation.

It can be borax, soda ash, silica, or a combination ofthese.

A furnace is a device that provides enough heat to meltyour gold evenly and 
quickly. It can beelectric, gas-powered, or induction-based.

 

The process ofmelting gold is fairly straightforward: you place your gold 
pieces inthe crucible, add some flux on top of them, put the crucible inside 
thefurnace, and turn on the heat.

You wait until thegold reaches its melting point (which you can check with a 
thermometer or byeye), then you carefullyremove the crucible from the furnace 
and pour the molten gold into a mold ofyour desired shape.

You let the goldcool down and solidify in the mold, then you remove it and 
admire your work.

My note- Nowadays while exchanging old gold ornaments inJewellary shop, they 
take the person/ representative tothe goldsmith/ staff melting gold. The 
ornaments  are first removed of pearls etc, and put in tocrucible over the 
furnace already above melting point. Within a minute gold is melted and poured 
in to mold. After aminute it is taken out with forceps, dipped in water, cooled 
and given to us. 

However thoughthe furnace is at high temperature, the working area does not 
appear very hot. 

One has to be verycareful, not to touch the melting gold, or looking close to 
melting gold. Itis best elders/ those who shiver/those with virtigo  does not 
go with the staff, for melting. 

Profile photo forMcleodproducts

Q5         How long should a car battery last?

A5          Mcleodproducts, Business Consultant |Digital Marketing Services | 
IT Guru Wed

A car battery plays a crucial role in providing theelectrical power needed to 
start the engine and operate various electricalsystems in a vehicle. As an 
essential component of theautomotive system, car owners often wonder about the 
lifespan of a car batteryand how to ensure its optimal performance. In this 
article, we will explore thefactors affecting the longevity of a car battery, 
signs of a failing battery,and maintenance tips to extend its lifespan.

Factors Affecting Car Battery Lifespan:

1. Quality and Brand: The quality and brand of acar battery play a significant 
role in determining its lifespan. High-quality batteries fromreputable 
manufacturers are generally designed to last longer and perform morereliably.

2. Climate and Temperature: Extreme temperatures,both hot and cold, can impact 
the performance of a car battery. High heat cancause the battery fluid to 
evaporate, leading to internal damage, while extreme cold can reduce 
thebattery's ability to provide sufficient power.

3. Driving Habits: The frequency and duration ofdriving can affect the car 
battery's lifespan. Short trips and infrequent usemay not allow the battery to 
fully charge, leading to premature degradation.

4. Vehicle Accessories: Additional electricalaccessories, such as audio 
systems, GPS devices, and in-car entertainment, drawpower from the battery. If 
these accessories are left on when the engine is notrunning, they can 
contribute to battery drain and reduce its lifespan.

5. Maintenance: Regular maintenance of the carbattery, including keeping the 
terminals clean and free of corrosion, can helpprolong its life.

Signs of a Failing Car Battery:

Recognizing the signsof a failing car battery is essential to prevent 
unexpected breakdowns andensure road safety. Common signs of a failing car 
batteryinclude:

1. Slow Engine Crank: If the engine cranks slowlywhen starting the car, it may 
indicate that the battery is losing its capacityto hold a charge.

 

2. Dimming Lights: Dimming headlights and interiorlights are indicative of a 
weakened battery.

3. Warning Lights: Dashboard warning lights, suchas the battery or check engine 
light, may illuminate when the battery isexperiencing issues.

4. Difficulty Starting: If the car struggles to start orfails to start 
altogether, it may be due to a weak or dead battery.

5. Low FluidLevel: Some car batteries have removable caps that allow you to 
check the fluidlevel. A low fluid level could indicate a problem with the 
battery.

Maintenance Tips toExtend Car Battery Lifespan:

To maximize thelifespan of a car battery, follow these maintenance tips:

1. RegularInspections: Routinely inspect the battery for signs of damage, 
corrosion, orleaks. Address any issues promptly.

2. Keep TerminalsClean: Clean the battery terminals regularly using a mixture 
of baking soda andwater to prevent corrosion.

3. SecureConnections: Ensure that the battery cables are securely attached to 
theterminals to maintain a strong connection.

4. Limit AccessoryUsage: Avoid running electrical accessories while the engine 
is off to preventexcessive drain on the battery.

5. Keep theBattery Charged: If your vehicle is not used frequently, consider 
usinga battery maintainer or trickle charger to keep the battery charged.

6. Park in Shade: Whenever possible, park yourvehicle in the shade to reduce 
exposure to extreme temperatures.

Conclusion:

The lifespan of acar battery can vary depending on various factors, including 
quality, climate,driving habits, and maintenance. On average, a car battery can 
lastbetween 3 to 5 years. However, by adhering to regular maintenancepractices 
and being attentive to signs of a failing battery, car owners canextend the 
lifespan of their car batteries and reduce the risk of unexpectedbreakdowns. 
Regular inspections, keeping terminals clean, and limiting accessoryusage are 
just a few of the measures that can help car owners get the most outof their 
car batteries. By taking care of this essential component, car ownerscan enjoy 
reliable starting power and electrical performance, ensuring a smoothand 
trouble-free driving experience.

My note-Either car battery/ UPS battery, with proper top up, will efficiently 
work for 3years,the present warranty period in Indian products.

Q6         Can I take Amla with milk?

A6          Weights Loss Diet, Health Director |Loving Father | Business 
Director3h

Amla, also known as Indian gooseberry, is anutrient-rich fruit renowned for its 
numerous health benefits. Milk, on theother hand, is a staple in many diets 
worldwide and is known for its calciumand protein content. Combining these two 
powerful ingredients may seem like anatural and beneficial choice, but there 
are considerations to keep in mind. Inthis article, we will delve into the 
potential benefits and concerns of takingAmla with milk to help you make an 
informed decision about incorporating thiscombination into your diet.

1. Nutritional Profile of Amla:

Amla is a potentsource of essential nutrients, including vitamin C, vitamin A, 
vitamin E, andvarious minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and iron. Its high 
vitamin Ccontent makes it a powerful antioxidant, boosting immunity and 
protectingagainst oxidative stress. Additionally, Amla is known for promoting 
skinhealth, supporting digestion, and enhancing hair growth.

2. Nutritional Profile of Milk:

Milk is a richsource of calcium, protein, vitamin D, and other essential 
nutrients. Calciumis crucial for bone health, while protein is necessary for 
muscle repair andgrowth. Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption and 
plays a vital role inmaintaining overall health and immunity.

3. Benefits of Combining Amla with Milk:

When Amla is combined with milk, the nutritional benefitsof both ingredients 
complement each other. The vitamin C inAmla may enhance the absorption of 
calcium from milk, promoting better bonehealth. Additionally, the protein in 
milk may help balance the blood sugarresponse to Amla, making it a suitable 
combination for individuals withdiabetes or blood sugar imbalances.

4. Traditional Use in Ayurveda:

In Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine, thecombination of Amla 
with milk is often recommended for its rejuvenatingproperties. This combination 
is believed tonourish the body, boost immunity, and support overall well-being.

5. Considerations for Some Individuals:

While thecombination of Amla and milk can be beneficial for many people, it may 
not besuitable for everyone. 

Some individuals may have lactose intolerance or dairyallergies, making it 
necessary to avoid milk or opt for dairy alternatives likealmond milk or soy 
milk when consuming Amla. 

Additionally,those with kidney stones or other specific health conditions may 
need toconsult a healthcare professional before incorporating this combination 
intotheir diet.

6. Culinary Uses:

Amla can beconsumed with milk in various ways. One popular method is to make 
Amla milk byblending fresh Amla juice with milk and adding a touch of sweetness 
if desired.Amla powder can also be mixed with warm milk to create a soothing 
andnutritious beverage.

7. Moderation and Balance:

As with any dietarycombination, moderation and balance are key. While Amla and 
milk can bebeneficial when consumed together, it is essential to include a 
variety ofother nutrient-dense foods in your diet to ensure you get a wide 
range ofessential nutrients.

Conclusion:

Combining Amla with milk can be a nutritious andbeneficial choice, offering a 
powerful blend of essential nutrients andhealth-promoting properties. The 
vitamin C in Amla enhancescalcium absorption from milk, promoting bone health, 
while the protein in milkcomplements the blood sugar response to 
Amla.Traditional practices in Ayurveda also endorse this combination for 
itsrejuvenating effects on the body.

However,it is important to consider individual health conditions and 
dietarypreferences. Some individuals may need to opt for dairyalternatives due 
to lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. As with any dietary choice, 
moderation and balance are essential foroverall health and well-being. 
Consulting with a healthcare professional or registereddietitian can help you 
create a personalized dietary plan that incorporatesAmla and milk along with 
other nutrient-dense foods to support your individualhealth goals.

Q7         How do pilots determine their locationwhen flying a plane? Do they 
use GPS?

Randy Duncan,AirlinePilot, Boeing 737, One of the U.S. majors. Updated Jun 4

They do use GPS and a whole lot more.

In a modernairliner like the 737 that I fly, there are a lot of inputs that are 
used by acomputer that can give us a very close approximation of our position.

The first is GPS, which as everybody knows is asatellite system, it is 
supplemented by WAAS which stands for Wide Area Augmentation System.It’s 
basically a system of ground stations that collect the GPS data andcorrect it 
for various errors, one of them being atmospheric. That informationis then sent 
to the aircraft which uses it to correct any GPS errors.

The second is IRS or Inertial Reference System. Thisone is intriguing to me. 
It’s a set of sensitive gyros and accelerometers thatdoes not receive outside 
input after it is turned on. We tell it the longitude andlatitude of the 
airplane and from it’s internal sensors, it can tell us withsurprising accuracy 
where we are during the flight. It’s older technology butit’s still fascinating 
to me.

Third is called “Selective Tuning”. There navigationstations across the world 
called VORs. These can tell usour distance and azimuth from the station. In the 
old days, weused these almost exclusively and would travel from one station to 
the nextduring the flight. The airplane system will tune in a VOR, andcan give 
us our position. It does this every few seconds with various VORs aswe fly.

Fourth is our compass. We have two “flux gate”compasses on the wingtips to 
provide our magnetic heading. It is useful in thelower latitudes. We also 
havewhat we call the “Whiskey Compass” which is an old fashioned 
magneticcompass in the cockpit that is immersed in a liquid to stabilize it. 
It’sprobably the lowest tech piece of equipment in a modern airliner. It has 
barelychanged since the dawn of aviation.

Flux Gate Compass

Whiskey Compasscircled in red

So all of this information can be used by us as a singlesource to navigate. 

However, inmost cases, we use a computer that takes information from all of 
these sources,compares them and then gives us a ‘’best guess” of our location.

It’s usuallywithin a few feet of our actual position. I’ve checked it on the 
ground andit’s always right on.

There is a page onthe computer that shows a map and has several dots on it, 
each labeled with ourposition from each of the navigation methods. I’m not sure 
exactly how the software decides ourposition but I’m sure alot of thought went 
into this computation.

Beyond these methods, we also have weather radar.It’s not designed for 
navigation but we can tilt it down to where it hits theground. We can often 
pick out landmarks. It’s pretty good at finding shorelinesand big bodies of 
water. A little less so with mountains but still useable.

Lastly,although not a computer system, there’s the old fashioned looking out 
thewindow.We can see big cities,mountain ranges, rivers, sometimes highways and 
we can tell if we’re going inthe right direction from that information as well. 
It’s not particularlyaccurate but we can figure out where we’re going

EDIT 1: I forgot one more method, Air Traffic Control canalso give us a fix on 
our location if we ask them.In some cases, such as loss of all of our other 
navigation information, they can give us “no gyro”vectors. In that case, they 
will tell us to “turn right” and then “stop turn”.They’ll use those kinds of 
instructions to help us find our way to the airportwhen all else fails. 

There is also a PAR or Precision Approach Radar, that ATCcan use to fly an 
approach to a runway. They have aspecially tuned radar that can give the 
controller both glideslope andprecision azimuth information. The instructions 
are similar but also includedescent information. They’ll say, slightly left of 
course, correct to the rightand slightly above glideslope increase rate of 
descent. There are not a lot ofPAR approach facilities out there and our 
airline doesn’t even train to usethem any more. In the old days, they were 
trained but even then they were rare.I flew only one in my professional life to 
an airport in Japan.



Edit 2: I also forgot “Dead Reckoning”. This is amethod of using time and 
heading to determine the aircraft’s location. To usethis method, you create a 
flight plan that takes into account the speed of theaircraft in various phases 
of flight and the winds aloft. Then you figure outthe correct magnetic heading 
for each segment of the flight. Using thisinformation and a stopwatch, you can 
determine the position of the airplane. In the early days, this was aprimary 
method of navigation before ground-based navigation aids and was prone to 
error.If the winds were notas expected or the heading wasn’t controlled well, 
the aircraft could be farfrom where the pilot thought it should be.

Today, our flightplans are almost scarily accurate. If we lost every single 
method of navigationexcept our compass and clock, I feel confident we could get 
the airplane withina few miles of our destination.

All the above QA are from Quora  website  on  03-08- 2023. 

Quora answers need not be 100% correct answers .

Compiled and posted by R. Gopala krishnan, on 03-08-2023

 

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