Define "moment" in relation to weight and balance calculations.

The concept of "moment" in weight and balance calculations is defined as the product of the weight of an object and its distance from a reference point. This is critical in aviation because it determines the distribution of weight within the aircraft and how that affects its center of gravity.

When calculating weight and balance, moments help in assessing the impact of load placement on the aircraft's stability and performance. By multiplying the weight of an item by its distance from a designated reference point (often the aircraft's datum), you get the moment for that item. Moments are then summed to determine the overall effect on the aircraft's center of gravity.

This calculation is essential for ensuring that the aircraft operates safely within its designated weight and balance limits, as improper loading can lead to stability issues during flight. Understanding moments allows pilots and ground crew to make informed decisions about how to load the aircraft to maintain safe operational parameters.