BBC Compacta Class 9 Solutions - Classroom Assignment- 1

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage. 

1.
Ans: Because the engine is not connected to the rotors, a gyrocopter is not seriously affected if the engine should stop in flight.

2.
Ans: The fact that gyrocopters have transitioned from being open cockpit to fully enclosed models.

3.
Ans: Border security, surveillance.

4.
Ans: (b) wind-direction.

5.
Ans:  Gyrocopters can fly very low, they are less expensive, need less landing space, can be flown from practically everywhere, and they sail like a glider with the engine off, using the direction of the wind to maintain flight.

6.
Ans:  There is no engine turning the rotors, and the rotors simply self-propel or "auto-rotate" due to the way the air flows through them.
Gyrocopters need an initial thrust for takeoff and then use the direction of the wind to glide, unlike helicopters which can take off and land vertically.

7.
Ans: Both can use rotors for flight.

8.
Ans: (c) noise.

9.
Ans: They are being brought to India to ease traffic problems, and they can also manage heavier payload compared to earlier models.

10.
Ans: (a) enthusiasm.

11.
Ans: (b) At an affordable price of something.

12.
Ans: (d) 3, 4 and 5.

13.
Ans: The DGCA wants to formulate a separate category for gyrocopters in India because they want to regulate their use, especially avoiding operation in dense city areas, near VIPs, or defence areas.

14.
Ans: "Gyrocopters should not be allowed to operate in residential, VIP or defence areas."
Because their operation in densely populated or sensitive areas could pose a security or safety risk.

15.
Ans: (i) open and enclosed
(iv) land and take-off

16.
Ans: (d) 1-(ii), 2-(iii), 3-(iv), 4-(v), 5-(vi), 6-(i), 7-(vii), 8-(ix)

Open Response
Ans: Yes, introducing gyrocopters as personal vehicles could potentially help solve India's traffic woes. As the text mentions, gyrocopters require very little space for landing and takeoff, which means they can be operated in various areas. They are also less expensive than helicopters, making them more accessible. Additionally, gyrocopters can manage heavy traffic better due to their ability to fly low and not require long runways. However, the success of this solution will depend on the effective management of airspace, robust safety regulations, and public acceptance of this mode of transportation. Moreover, infrastructural support for landing pads and maintenance facilities would also play a critical role in integrating gyrocopters into the existing transportation system.