What increases control surface effectiveness at high speeds?

Increased airflow over control surfaces plays a pivotal role in enhancing their effectiveness at high speeds. As the aircraft moves through the air faster, the relative wind rushing over the control surfaces, such as ailerons, elevators, and rudders, increases. This augmented airflow leads to a greater aerodynamic force acting on these surfaces, allowing for more responsive and effective control.

Higher speeds result in a greater dynamic pressure on the control surfaces, which amplifies their ability to generate lift or drag when deflected. This characteristic is essential for pilots, as it allows for quicker maneuvers and more precise adjustments during flight, particularly in high-speed conditions or when undertaking aggressive flight maneuvers.

In contrast, decreased angle of attack does not necessarily contribute to control surface effectiveness at high speeds, as it can lead to reduced lift and may not support maneuverability. Reduced weight can help with overall performance but does not directly influence the aerodynamic effectiveness of the control surfaces. Higher centripetal force relates to the aircraft's motion in a circular path rather than its control surface performance under different speeds.