What should students do in exams regarding the floor running load?

In the context of mass and balance calculations, especially when dealing with specific loading configurations in aircraft, the requirement to use the longest side for the floor running load is essential for ensuring proper weight distribution and stability. When calculating the load, it's important to maximize the effective use of space and the structural integrity of the aircraft.

Using the longest side allows for a more accurate assessment of how the load impacts the center of gravity (CG) of the aircraft. A longer load generally provides greater leverage, which can shift the CG more significantly than a shorter load. This understanding is crucial in aviation, as improper load distribution can lead to flight safety issues.

In this scenario, opting for the longest side allows for a standardized approach to load management across various types of aircraft and loading situations, ensuring that students can apply this method universally unless otherwise directed.

The other strategies, such as focusing on just the shortest side or taking an average of both sides, would potentially lead to an inaccurate assessment of the load's influence on the aircraft's balance. Ignoring dimensions altogether eliminates critical data necessary for safe and effective load calculations. Therefore, selecting the longest side is the most reliable method in ensuring a controlled and stable aircraft configuration during operations.