What are the main types of icing encountered in aviation?

The correct answer identifies the primary classifications of icing encountered during flight, specifically in conditions where supercooled liquid water is present.

Clear ice occurs when larger droplets of water freeze on contact with the aircraft surface, forming a smooth, transparent layer. This type of icing can significantly alter the aircraft's aerodynamics due to its heavy and dense nature, often creating a substantial weight increase and changing the shape of the airfoil, which can lead to decreased performance and increased drag.

Rime ice, in contrast, forms from smaller droplets that freeze quickly upon contact, resulting in a rough, opaque accumulation. This type of ice may not be as heavy as clear ice, but it still disrupts airflow, creating potential control issues and reducing lift.

Mixed ice is a combination of both rime and clear ice, arising in conditions where a mixture of droplet sizes exists. This can present a challenging situation for pilots, as the characteristics of the ice can change quickly and affect handling and performance differently than either clear or rime ice alone.

Understanding these types of icing is crucial for pilots, as each type poses unique challenges and risks that need to be managed effectively while flying in potentially icy conditions.