What happens when the elevator is pushed forward?

When the elevator is pushed forward, the elevator control surface on the tail of the aircraft moves down, which decreases the angle of attack of the horizontal stabilizer. This action generates less lift at the tail, causing the nose of the aircraft to pitch down. As a result, the aircraft enters a descending flight path. It is essential to understand that the elevator's primary function is to control the aircraft's pitch; pushing forward on the control yoke or stick moves the elevator in such a way that it causes the aircraft to descend.

The other options pertain to different flight maneuvers: climbing would occur if the elevator is pulled back, rolling involves lateral movement which is controlled by ailerons, and yawing is controlled by the rudder. This distinction highlights the role of the elevator in pitch control and how its movement directly influences the aircraft's vertical attitude.