Which control surface is differential control associated with?

Differential control is primarily associated with ailerons, which are the control surfaces responsible for managing the roll of an aircraft. When an aileron is deflected upward on one wing, the lift on that wing decreases, while the opposite aileron is deflected downward, increasing lift on the opposite wing. This difference in lift between the two wings causes the aircraft to roll in the direction of the wing with the upward-deflected aileron.

The reason differential control is important is that it helps counteract adverse yaw, which is the tendency of the aircraft to yaw opposite to the direction of the roll. By providing different amounts of control surface deflection, ailerons create a more balanced and controlled turn, enhancing the overall stability and maneuverability of the aircraft.

The other control surfaces mentioned do not primarily deal with differential control in the same way. Elevators are used to control pitch, rudders control yaw, and flaps primarily serve to increase lift during takeoff and landing, rather than managing differential movements.