What is the function of the elevators in the empennage?

The elevators are a crucial control surface located on the horizontal stabilizer of the empennage in an aircraft. Their primary function is to control the pitch, which is the up-and-down movement of the aircraft's nose. By adjusting the angle of the elevators, the pilot can raise or lower the aircraft's nose, thereby influencing the aircraft's attitude in the vertical plane. This allows for ascents and descents during flight, making it essential for managing flight paths and responding to changes in flight demands.

The other options do not accurately describe the function of the elevators. While lateral movement is controlled by a different surface known as the ailerons, structural integrity is primarily the role of the empennage itself, not specifically the elevators. Fuel distribution is managed by fuel systems, and is not related to the function of the elevators. Understanding how the elevators operate is vital for pilots to effectively control the aircraft during different phases of flight.