Incident Overview
A student pilot on his first unsupervised solo flight was performing touch-and-go landings in the local traffic pattern. After the second landing, the pilot retracted the flaps, applied full power, and moved the carburetor heat to the off position. Upon becoming airborne, the pilot reported encountering 'harsh back pressure' and attempted to adjust the elevator trim, but the trim did not alleviate the pressure.
Sequence of Events
The aircraft subsequently nosed down, contacted the runway, and began porpoising. The pilot then reduced power and brought the aircraft to a stop. During the occurrence, the propeller, nose gear, and firewall sustained damage.
Investigation Findings
Post-incident investigation revealed that the elevator trim was found in a 'nose down' position, and the trim tab was displaced 1.5 inches from neutral. No mechanical malfunction or failure was reported.