major alteration (aircraft alteration). 14 CFR Part 1: “An alteration not listed in the aircraft, aircraft engine, or propeller specifications —
(1) That might appreciably affect weight, balance, structural strength, performance, power-plant operation, flight characteristics, or other qualities affecting airworthiness; or
(2) That is not done according to accepted practices or cannot be done by elementary operations.”
major axis of an ellipse. A line passing through the two focuses of an ellipse. See ellipse.
major diameter (threaded fastener). The diameter of the threads of a bolt or screw measured at the crests (the tops) of the threads.
majority carriers (semiconductor material). The main electrical carriers within a semiconductor material. The majority carriers in P-type material are holes, and in N-type material, electrons.
major overhaul (engine overhaul). The disassembly, cleaning, and inspection of an engine and the repair and replacement of all parts that do not meet the manufacturer’s specifications. After all of the inspections and repairs are made, the engine is reassembled and tested according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Major overhaul restores an engine to a serviceable condition, and it normally operates as though it were new.
major repair (aircraft maintenance). 14 CFR Part 1: “A repair:
(1) That, if improperly done, might appreciably affect the weight, balance, structural strength, performance, powerplant operation, flight characteristics, or other qualities affecting airworthiness; or
(2) That is not done according to accepted practices or cannot be done by elementary operations.”
make-before-break switch (electrical switch). A type of two-pole switch that, when switching from one circuit to another, makes contact with the second circuit before it breaks contact with the first.
“Make short approach” (air traffic control). A phrase used by ATC to inform a pilot to alter his traffic pattern so as to make a short final approach.
male connector (electrical connector). The half of an electrical connector that contains pin-type contacts that complete circuits by sliding into sockets (female connectors).
malfunction. The improper operation of a component or system.
Malfunction and Defect Report (M & D Report). A small postcard-like form used by repair stations, maintenance shops, and technicians to report to the FAA a defect or unacceptable condition discovered in an FAA-certificated component. Information gathered on M & D reports allows the FAA to identify and track weaknesses in certificated products that could create a safety problem. M & D reports provide the basis for the General Airworthiness Alerts and subsequent Airworthiness Directives.
malleability. The ability of a material to be stretched or shaped by rolling or hammering it. Malleable materials do not crack when they are formed in this way.
Gold and lead have a high degree of malleability. Both can be shaped into almost any desired form by hammering or beating them.
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