What happens to the center of gravity when the nose gear is retracted?

When the nose gear is retracted, the center of gravity of the aircraft shifts to the rear. This occurs because, during flight, the weight distribution of the aircraft changes as the nose gear, which is a forward point of weight, is no longer in contact with the ground and is pulled into the aircraft's structure. This retraction essentially redistributes the mass towards the rear of the aircraft, causing the center of gravity to move backward relative to its position when the nose gear is extended and on the ground.

Understanding this shift is significant for piloting and aircraft performance, as it can influence stability and control characteristics during different phases of flight. The other options do not accurately capture the mechanics involved in this process; they suggest a stability that does not account for the physical changes in weight distribution upon retraction of the nose gear.