What is the primary effect of wake turbulence on an aircraft?

The primary effect of wake turbulence on an aircraft is inducing roll. Wake turbulence is created by the passage of an aircraft through the air, particularly by larger aircraft that generate vortices at their wingtips. These vortices can be quite powerful and can cause significant disruptions in the airflow around following aircraft, particularly during takeoff and landing phases when they are operating at lower altitudes and speeds.

When a smaller aircraft flies into the wake turbulence created by a larger aircraft, it may experience a sudden rolling motion due to the swirling air from the vortices. This rolling motion can pose a serious risk to the stability and control of the aircraft if not properly managed. Pilots are trained to be aware of wake turbulence and to maintain a safe distance from larger aircraft to mitigate the effects of these vortices.

While wake turbulence can have other effects, such as temporarily affecting lift and possibly leading to increased noise due to airflow disruptions, the most critical and direct danger from wake turbulence is indeed its ability to induce roll.