How far does an aircraft move when towed at a speed of 5 mph?

To determine how far an aircraft moves when towed at a speed of 5 mph, it is essential to convert the speed from miles per hour to feet per second.

1 mile is equivalent to 5,280 feet, and there are 3,600 seconds in one hour. Thus, to convert miles per hour to feet per second:

[

\text{Feet per second} = \frac{\text{Speed in mph} \times 5280 \text{ feet}}{3600 \text{ seconds}}

]

Substituting the speed into the formula:

[

\text{Feet per second} = \frac{5 \text{ mph} \times 5280 \text{ feet}}{3600 \text{ seconds}} = \frac{26400}{3600} \approx 7.33 \text{ feet per second}

]

Rounding to one decimal place gives approximately 7.3 feet per second. Therefore, this calculation confirms that the correct answer reflects the proper conversion and calculation, which illustrates the aircraft's movement in a manner consistent with physical principles. Understanding these conversions is vital for operations involving aircraft towing and ground movement.