How does gross weight influence the stall angle of attack in an airfoil?

The stall angle of attack is a fundamental characteristic of an airfoil, defined as the angle at which the airflow separates from the wing surface, leading to a significant loss of lift. This angle is primarily determined by the aerodynamic design of the wing, including factors such as its shape (airfoil) and surface characteristics, rather than influenced by the aircraft's gross weight.

Gross weight may affect the aircraft's overall performance and handling characteristics, including required lift and flight speed, but it does not alter the inherent stall angle of attack of the airfoil itself. Therefore, as the gross weight changes, the necessary angle of attack to maintain level flight will also change, but the angle at which a stall occurs remains constant for a given wing design.

In essence, the stall angle of attack is an intrinsic property of the airfoil, unaffected by external factors like weight, which is why the correct answer emphasizes that gross weight has no impact on the stall angle.