Question

The primary load-carrying structural component of an aircraft wing is:

• A. Rib
• B. Stringer
• C. Spar
• D. Skin
• E. Bulkhead

Hint:

Think of the Spar as the "spine" of the wing. Just as your spine supports your weight and posture, the Spar supports the lift and weight of the aircraft.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
An aircraft wing is subjected to immense bending, torsion, and shear loads during flight. Its internal skeleton must be rigid yet lightweight.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The wing structure consists of several components:
- Spars: These are the heavy beams running the length of the wing (root to tip). They are designed to carry the majority of the lift loads and the resulting bending moments.
- Ribs: These give the wing its aerodynamic airfoil shape and transfer loads from the skin to the spars.
- Stringers: These are longitudinal members that stiffen the skin and prevent it from buckling under axial loads.
- Skin: It maintains the aerodynamic contour and resists torsional (twisting) loads.
Because the Spar bears the primary bending stress (the largest force in flight), it is considered the primary load-carrying member.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The Spar is the primary load-carrying component of the wing.