Aviation Standard Test Battery-E (ASTB E) Practice Test

In a monocoque aircraft, what is the function of the stringer?

1. To provide a rigid frame for the wings

2. To support the fuselage along its length

3. To aid in the aerodynamics of the aircraft

4. To connect the cockpit to the tail section

The correct answer is: To support the fuselage along its length

In a monocoque aircraft, the stringer plays a crucial role in supporting the fuselage along its length. The stringers are longitudinal members that add rigidity and strength to the overall structure while allowing it to remain lightweight. They are attached to the inner surface of the aircraft skin, which is typically formed to take on aerodynamic shapes while also bearing loads. When loads are applied to the fuselage, such as during flight or landing, the stringers help distribute these forces, ensuring that the shape and integrity of the aircraft are maintained. This design principle is fundamental in monocoque constructions, where the skin itself carries most of the loads in combination with the stringers, enhancing the overall structural efficiency. Other options do not accurately describe the primary function of the stringer in a monocoque design. For instance, the stringer does not provide a rigid frame for the wings, nor is its main purpose to aid in aerodynamics directly, or to connect the cockpit to the tail section. Instead, the stringer's primary focus is on supporting the fuselage, ensuring a robust and efficient structure for the aircraft.