What happens to V_X and V_Y as you climb higher?

As altitude increases, various aerodynamic and engine performance factors come into play, affecting V_X (best angle of climb speed) and V_Y (best rate of climb speed).

V_X represents the speed at which an aircraft gains the most altitude over the shortest horizontal distance. This speed typically decreases with altitude due to reduced engine performance and less air density affecting lift production. For many aircraft, as you climb to higher altitudes where the air becomes less dense, the effectiveness of the wings generating lift decreases, and the aircraft struggles to maintain the optimal climb angle. Therefore, V_X tends to decrease.

On the other hand, V_Y is the speed that allows for the greatest altitude gain per unit of time. As altitude increases and aircraft performance declines, there may be an increase in V_Y to optimize the climb rate under the new conditions. Although engine performance diminishes, the rate of climb at slightly higher speeds can allow the aircraft to maintain a more effective climb.

In summary, at higher altitudes, while V_X decreases due to decreased lift and engine power, V_Y can increase as pilots seek to climb effectively despite the performance drop-off. Thus, the correct response indicates that V_X decreases while V_Y increases, illustrating how optimal climb speeds adapt to changing