What is coning in the context of rotor blades?

Coning refers to the phenomenon where rotor blades of a helicopter bend upward during flight. This upward bending occurs due to the effects of the lift generated by the blades. As the helicopter hovers or maneuvers, the blades experience lift forces that cause them to flex and rise at the tips, leading to a coned shape. This change in shape helps to counteract the increased angle of attack that occurs when the rotor blades rotate, maintaining the efficiency of the blades under varying loads.

Understanding coning is crucial for rotorcraft operations, as it affects the aerodynamic behavior of the rotor system and has implications for lift and overall helicopter performance. The correct answer reflects this significant upward bending characteristic of rotor blades, differentiating it from other aerodynamic behaviors that do not accurately describe coning.