What component produces lift on a helicopter?

The correct answer is that the rotor blades produce lift on a helicopter. The rotor blades are essential for a helicopter's ability to fly, as they operate similarly to the wings of an airplane but in a rotary manner. When the rotor blades spin, they create a difference in air pressure above and below the blades due to their airfoil shape. This difference in pressure results in lift, allowing the helicopter to ascend, descend, and hover.

The design and angle of attack of the rotor blades can be adjusted to control the amount of lift generated, which is critical for the various maneuvers a helicopter must perform. The lift produced by the rotor blades is what enables the helicopter to overcome gravity and maneuver in three-dimensional space. This is in contrast to the other components listed, which serve different functions: the tail rotor primarily aids in counteracting the torque effect and maintaining directional stability, the fuselage provides structure and houses components and passengers, and the skids are the landing gear, supporting the helicopter on the ground but not contributing to lift during flight.