What does the propeller pitch in a hovercraft influence?

The propeller pitch in a hovercraft refers to the angle at which the blades of the propeller are set relative to the plane of rotation. This angle significantly affects the thrust produced by the propeller and the overall efficiency of the hovercraft’s propulsion system. When the pitch is adjusted, it changes the amount of air being pushed downwards, which in turn impacts the hovercraft's ability to lift off the ground and maintain its height while moving. A higher pitch can generate more thrust but may require more power, while a lower pitch reduces thrust but improves efficiency at certain speeds. Therefore, the design and adjustment of propeller pitch are critical for optimizing performance, making it a key element in the hovercraft's operation.