What is the primary purpose of the tail rotor system?

The primary purpose of the tail rotor system in a helicopter is to counteract the torque effect of the main rotor. As the main rotor spins in one direction, it creates an equal and opposite reaction that tends to rotate the helicopter’s body in the opposite direction. The tail rotor is designed to generate thrust that counterbalances this torque, allowing for stable flight and control.

When the tail rotor produces thrust, it helps maintain the helicopter's orientation and prevents unwanted yaw motion. By adjusting the pitch of the tail rotor blades, the pilot can control the amount of thrust and, consequently, the amount of torque being counteracted, enabling coordinated flight maneuvers. This is fundamental for the helicopter’s operational effectiveness, ensuring that it can navigate without spinning uncontrollably due to the rotational forces from the main rotor.