What avionic sensor combines information from gyroscopes and accelerometers to determine the aircraft's attitude and angular rate?

The correct answer is the Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU). This sensor plays a crucial role in flight dynamics by integrating data from both gyroscopes and accelerometers. Gyroscopes measure the rate of rotation around the aircraft's axes, while accelerometers measure the linear acceleration in multiple directions. When these two types of data are combined, the IMU can accurately determine the aircraft's attitude—its orientation in space—and its angular rate of rotation.

This capability is essential for maintaining stability and control during flight. The IMU provides real-time feedback to the flight control systems, enabling the drone or aircraft to respond appropriately to changes in its environment or flight conditions. This is particularly important in applications involving navigation, stabilization, and complex maneuvers.

In contrast, the Global Positioning System (GPS) is primarily used for positioning and navigation rather than detailing attitude information. An Altitude Sensor provides information about the height of the aircraft and may use pressure or other methods but does not combine gyroscope and accelerometer data. Lastly, the Air Data Computer processes data related to airspeed, altitude, and other aerodynamic information but does not specifically focus on the attitude and angular rate like an IMU does.