What describes the term "bank angle" in aviation?

The term "bank angle" in aviation specifically refers to the angle between the vertical axis and the wings of an aircraft during a turn. This angle is crucial for understanding how the aircraft maneuvers and maintains its flight path. When an aircraft is in a turn, it must bank to generate a horizontal component of lift that allows it to change direction without losing altitude. The bank angle affects the radius of the turn and is integral to flight dynamics. A proper understanding of bank angle is essential for pilots to maintain control during maneuvers, ensuring safety and effectiveness when changing altitude or direction.

Other options describe different concepts in aviation. The angle of descent during landing, for example, pertains to how the aircraft approaches the runway but does not define the orientation of the wings in relation to the vertical. Similarly, the angle of pitch during ascent relates to the nose position of the aircraft and not its banking. Lastly, turbulence may cause the aircraft to roll, but the term "bank angle" specifically refers to the aircraft's orientation in a controlled turn, not just any roll that may occur.