Human Physiology in Flight
What happens to air pressure and density as altitude increases?
Air pressure and density decrease as altitude increases.
What are the three types of oxygen systems used in flight?
Continuous flow, diluter demand, and pressure demand systems.
What are the three essential elements required for a fire?
Oxygen, heat, and fuel.
What is G-force?
The force exerted on the body during acceleration.
Name two uses for fire in survival.
Provide warmth, purify water.
Name three critical body systems affected by flight.
Circulation, respiration, and dehydration.
Above what altitude are pressure suits required?
Above 50,000 feet.
What is the minimum amount of water needed daily for survival?
At least 2 liters per day or half your body weight in ounces
What is a centrifuge used for?
To train pilots to withstand high G-forces.
Why is it important to filter water?
To remove solid particles and avoid getting sick.
What is hypoxia? Name two symptoms.
Hypoxia occurs when the body's tissues don't get enough oxygen. Symptoms: lightheadedness, shallow breathing.
How do night vision goggles enhance visibility?
They convert light into electricity to intensify visibility, but they limit depth perception and color vision.
Why should snow closest to the ground be used for water?
It is packed and yields more water when melted.
Name two physiological effects of G-forces.
GLOC (G-induced loss of consciousness), tunnel vision, Oxygen starvation, grey-out vision, or blackout vision, acceleration stress
What are three fire-laying methods?
Tepee, log cabin, pyramid.
What is Time of Useful Consciousness (TUC)?
The time a person can function effectively with insufficient oxygen.
What is an altitude chamber used for?
To simulate the effects of high altitude and hypoxia in a controlled environment.
Name two symptoms of dehydration.
Weakness, Fatigue, Dizziness, Headache, Fever,
Inelastic abdominal skin
How do anti-G suits protect pilots?
They pressurize parts of the body to prevent blood pooling during high G-forces.
Why is ingesting unmelted snow dangerous?
It lowers body temperature and can cause dehydration.
Why is cabin pressurization necessary at high altitudes?
To provide oxygen and maintain a comfortable pressure for passengers at altitudes above 36,000 feet.
Name three types of decompression and explain one.
Insidious (slow loss of pressure), rapid (sudden loss of pressure), and explosive (loss in under 0.5 seconds).
How can precipitation be gathered for water in a survival situation?
Using nonporous materials like a poncho or canvas to funnel and collect rain.
How does gravity influence flight?
It pulls the aircraft down, balancing the force of lift to maintain flight.
What is the difference between water filtration and purification?
Filtration removes solid particles; purification removes harmful agents.