Which of the following describes the three axes of an airplane?

The correct answer accurately describes the three primary axes of an airplane: longitudinal, lateral, and vertical.

The longitudinal axis runs from the nose to the tail of the aircraft. Movement around this axis is referred to as rolling, which is controlled by the ailerons on the wings.

The lateral axis extends from wingtip to wingtip. Movement around this axis is called pitching, typically controlled by the elevator at the tail of the aircraft.

The vertical axis runs vertically through the center of the aircraft. Rotation around this axis is known as yaw, and it is controlled by the rudder located on the vertical stabilizer.

Understanding these axes is crucial for comprehending how an aircraft maneuvers in three-dimensional space, making it fundamental knowledge for pilots and aviation students alike. The other options listed relate to aspects of flight or aircraft control but do not accurately describe the axes and thus do not represent the fundamental axes of maneuverability in an aircraft.