Which structural member of the wing is responsible for absorbing bending loads during flight?

The spar is the primary structural member of the wing designed specifically to absorb bending loads that occur during flight. In aviation structures, bending loads are generated by aerodynamic forces when the aircraft is in motion, particularly during maneuvers and changes in speed. The spar runs lengthwise along the wing and provides the necessary strength and stiffness to withstand these forces without failing. It acts as the main support structure, distributing the loads throughout the wing assembly.

Ribs, on the other hand, serve different purposes such as maintaining the aerodynamic shape of the wing and supporting the cover skin, but they do not play the primary role in absorbing bending loads. Stringers add additional strength and help distribute loads but are secondary to the spar in handling bending forces. The wingtip is the outermost part of the wing and serves more for aerodynamic effectiveness and stability rather than structural rigidity for bending loads. Thus, the spar is the correct choice when identifying the structural member responsible for these critical loads during flight.