Main rotor blades that do not cone by the same amount during rotation are said to be what?

Main rotor blades that do not cone by the same amount during rotation are referred to as "out of track." This condition indicates a difference in the vertical displacement or coning angle of the rotor blades. When rotor blades are properly tracked, they travel through the same plane and maintain a uniform coning angle, allowing for smooth operation and balanced flight. However, if one blade coning more or less than the other leads to potential vibration and handling issues during flight.

Tracking ensures that all rotor blades operate co-ordinated, which is crucial for maintaining stability and control of the rotorcraft. If blades are out of track, it can cause one blade to lift more or less than the others, leading to yaw imbalance and other aerodynamic complications, which can ultimately affect safety.

The other choices, although related to rotor performance, describe different conditions. "Out of trim" generally pertains to the alignment of the rotor blades with respect to the aircraft's center of gravity and control surfaces, rather than their coning. "Pitched" usually refers to the angle of attack of the blades rather than the vertical alignment during rotation. "In balance" describes the weight distribution of the blades and their effect on the helicopter's center of gravity, not their coning angle.