Precipitation static can cause flawed magnetic compass readings.

Precipitation static can cause flawed magnetic compass readings.

• A. Inconsistent instrument readouts
• B. Increased engine RPM
• C. Enhanced GPS signal
• D. Flawed magnetic compass readings

Answer: (D)

Precipitation static creates electrical charges on the aircraft that can couple into sensitive instruments and cause transient disturbances. The magnetic compass relies on a stable interaction with Earth's magnetic field, so nearby electrical noise or small magnetic disturbances from static discharge can deflect the needle or produce momentary errors. That makes reading unreliable moment to moment, which is why it can lead to flawed magnetic compass readings. The other effects listed aren’t the typical outcome tied to precipitation static in relation to the compass: it isn’t about engine RPM, and while precipitation static can cause radio interference, it doesn’t inherently improve GPS signals or produce consistently inconsistent instrument readouts across the board.

Precipitation static creates electrical charges on the aircraft that can couple into sensitive instruments and cause transient disturbances. The magnetic compass relies on a stable interaction with Earth's magnetic field, so nearby electrical noise or small magnetic disturbances from static discharge can deflect the needle or produce momentary errors. That makes reading unreliable moment to moment, which is why it can lead to flawed magnetic compass readings.

The other effects listed aren’t the typical outcome tied to precipitation static in relation to the compass: it isn’t about engine RPM, and while precipitation static can cause radio interference, it doesn’t inherently improve GPS signals or produce consistently inconsistent instrument readouts across the board.