What is one purpose of internal baffles within fuel tanks?

Internal baffles within fuel tanks serve a critical function by reducing fuel sloshing or surging. When the aircraft is in flight, especially during maneuvers such as turns, climbs, or descents, the movement of fuel within the tank can create a dynamic situation where the fuel surges from side to side or front to back. This sloshing can affect the aircraft's balance and stability, which is why baffles are installed.

Baffles interrupt the flow of fuel, allowing it to be contained and minimizing the movement within the tank. This not only helps maintain a more consistent center of gravity during flight but also reduces the risk of fuel starvation issues during critical phases of flight, such as climbs or hard turns. In summary, the design and function of baffles are essential for ensuring safe and stable operations by managing fuel movement.

The other options do not accurately capture the primary purpose of baffles. Although increasing fuel capacity, simplifying tank design, or facilitating cleaning may be beneficial aspects in other design considerations, they are not the main purpose of baffles inside the fuel tank.