How does temperature affect weight and balance?

Temperature plays a significant role in affecting the fuel density and performance of an aircraft. As temperature increases, fuel expands and becomes less dense, meaning that the same volume of fuel will weigh less at higher temperatures than at lower ones. This change in fuel density can impact the overall weight of the aircraft and subsequently its balance.

The performance aspect is also crucial; temperature influences air density, which can affect engine performance, lift generation, and overall aircraft efficiency. As air density decreases with increasing temperature, the lift generated by the wings can diminish, potentially necessitating adjustments to the weight and balance management to ensure safe flight operations.

Choosing an answer that highlights this relationship signifies a deeper understanding of how environmental factors interplay with aircraft dynamics, which is essential for maintaining proper weight and balance for flight safety and efficiency.