What can wake turbulence do to VFR flights at low altitudes?

Wake turbulence refers to the disturbance in the atmosphere created by the passage of an aircraft, particularly large or heavy ones. This turbulence can be hazardous to aircraft flying in its vicinity, especially those operating under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) at low altitudes. When a smaller aircraft is flying behind or below a larger aircraft, it can be subject to these turbulent air currents generated by lift, which can lead to sudden changes in altitude or attitude.

The correct answer highlights the possibility that wake turbulence can cause lighter aircraft to sink unexpectedly into their flight paths. This is due to the descending currents of air associated with the wake of the larger aircraft, which can destabilize the flight of smaller aircraft, potentially leading to difficulties in control or even loss of altitude. Understanding this risk is critical for VFR pilots, particularly during takeoff and landing phases when aircraft are usually flying at lower altitudes and are more vulnerable to such disturbances.

The other options do not correctly reflect the risks associated with wake turbulence. High speeds may mitigate some effects, but they do not eliminate the risks entirely, especially at low altitudes. Calm weather conditions do not shield an aircraft from wake turbulence; rather, the turbulence can occur regardless of weather conditions. Lastly, while heavy aircraft are primary