Which component is responsible for controlling the aircraft's roll?

The ailerons are the primary control surfaces responsible for managing an aircraft's roll. They are situated on the outer sections of each wing and operate in opposing directions. When the pilot moves the control stick or yoke to the left or right, one aileron moves up while the other moves down. This movement creates a difference in lift between the two wings; the wing with the aileron raised generates less lift, causing that wing to drop, while the opposite wing rises, resulting in a rolling motion of the aircraft.

In contrast, the rudder, located on the vertical stabilizer, primarily controls the yaw of the aircraft, which is the side-to-side movement of the nose. Elevators, found on the horizontal tailplane, are responsible for the pitch, allowing the aircraft to climb or descend. Flaps, positioned on the wings, are used to increase lift during slow speeds, typically during takeoff and landing, but they have no significant effect on rolling movement.

Thus, the ailerons are the correct choice for controlling roll, making them essential for maintaining balance and orientation during flight.