Which components make up the tail section of an aircraft?

The tail section of an aircraft is a critical component that primarily contributes to flight stability and control. The correct answer encompasses the vertical stabilizer, rudder, horizontal stabilizer, and elevator.

The vertical stabilizer is the upright structure that helps maintain directional stability, preventing side-to-side motion that could destabilize the aircraft during flight. The rudder, which is attached to the vertical stabilizer, is a control surface that allows the pilot to steer the aircraft left or right, influencing its yaw movement.

The horizontal stabilizer, located at the rear of the aircraft, serves to stabilize the aircraft in the pitch axis, while the elevator, attached to the horizontal stabilizer, is pivotal in controlling the aircraft's ascent and descent by altering the pitch angle.

The other options refer to components that do not belong to the tail section. Ailerons and slats are associated with the wings, while speed brakes and flaps are also wing-related surfaces, helping with lift and control during specific phases of flight. Therefore, understanding the function and placement of each part clearly identifies why the selected choice is the valid representation of the tail section of an aircraft.