Which component of the Air Data Computer measures airspeed?

The Pitot tube is the correct component that measures airspeed in an aircraft's Air Data Computer system. It operates based on the principles of fluid dynamics, specifically Bernoulli's principle, which describes how an increase in the speed of a fluid occurs simultaneously with a decrease in pressure. The Pitot tube captures dynamic pressure created by the airflow as the aircraft moves through the air.

When the aircraft is in flight, the Pitot tube senses this pressure change and translates it into airspeed readings by comparing the dynamic pressure to static pressure, provided by the static port. The Air Data Computer uses this information to deliver accurate airspeed data necessary for the operation of the aircraft and to inform the pilot.

Other components mentioned have distinct roles: the static port measures atmospheric pressure for altitude and vertical speed calculations, the barometer gauges overall atmospheric pressure (and is essential for determining altitude when combined with the static pressure), and the accelerometer measures the aircraft's acceleration rather than airspeed. Understanding the specific function of these components highlights the specialized role of the Pitot tube in determining airspeed, ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the aircraft.