What is the primary function of an aileron on an aircraft?

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The primary function of an aileron is to roll the aircraft about the longitudinal axis. Ailerons are control surfaces located on the trailing edge of each wing and they work in differential pairs; when one aileron is deflected upward, the other is deflected downward. This action causes the aircraft to roll to the side of the wing with the aileron that is moving down, allowing for lateral control and facilitating banked turns.

Understanding the role of ailerons is crucial for maneuvering an aircraft, particularly during flight, where changes in orientation are needed. For instance, during a turn, the pilot uses ailerons to bank the aircraft into the turn, while the opposite wing will experience a decrease in lift and an increase in drag due to the upward movement of the aileron. This interaction emphasizes the aileron's role in managing the aircraft's attitude and direction of flight.

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