What effect does high temperature have on density altitude?

What effect does high temperature have on density altitude?

• A. It increases density altitude
• B. It decreases density altitude
• C. It has no effect
• D. It reduces density altitude

Answer: (A)

When the air is warmer than standard, it becomes less dense. Density altitude is the altitude in the standard atmosphere where the air would have the same density as the air currently present. Since warmer air has lower density for the same pressure, you have to go higher to reach that density, so the density altitude increases. This thinning air at higher density altitude means reduced engine power, less lift, and longer takeoff and climb distances.

When the air is warmer than standard, it becomes less dense. Density altitude is the altitude in the standard atmosphere where the air would have the same density as the air currently present. Since warmer air has lower density for the same pressure, you have to go higher to reach that density, so the density altitude increases. This thinning air at higher density altitude means reduced engine power, less lift, and longer takeoff and climb distances.