Which of the following instruments is driven by gyros?

The attitude indicator is an essential flight instrument that provides the pilot with a visual representation of the aircraft's orientation relative to the horizon. It is primarily driven by gyroscopic principles, utilizing a gyroscope to maintain a stable reference point for the airplane's pitch and roll attitudes.

Gyroscopes are devices that maintain their orientation regardless of the motion of their base, which is critical for accurately indicating an aircraft's position in three-dimensional space. In the case of the attitude indicator, the gyroscopic mechanism allows it to display the aircraft's motion around the lateral and longitudinal axes. As the aircraft banks or climbs, the attitude indicator reflects these changes in orientation, aiding in maintaining proper flight control, particularly in conditions of reduced visibility where the outside horizon may not be visible.

Other instruments listed, like the altimeter, vertical speed indicator (VSI), and magnetic compass, do not rely on gyro technology for their operation. The altimeter measures altitude based on changes in atmospheric pressure, the VSI indicates the rate of climb or descent through changes in static pressure, and the magnetic compass functions based on the Earth's magnetic field. Thus, the attitude indicator stands out as the only instrument among the options that is directly driven by gyros, confirming its unique role in providing critical aer