Hi Folks,



As you can see, my mind has drifted off in many directions at once. I've got a few questions, I'd be happy to hear any answers.



What benefits, if any, does a pusher have over conventional mounting of the engine in the front of the plane? The only value I see is noise reduction, and no possibility of carbon dioxide poisoning. I actually think that a pusher would have a lower performance due to a smaller area for low pressure to be created in _front_ of the propeller.



Also, why are more planes not canards? Is it that society expects big wings in front, and small ones in back? Are canards weird and unstable, or other?



Finally, why don't planes have Wankel (Rotary) engines? I would think that a Diesel Rotary would be an ideal plane engine. Higher RPMS, self lubricating, light wieght, etc.



Enquiring minds want to know ...



Happy Holidays,



MikeW