Which control surface is responsible for pitch control?

The elevator is the control surface specifically designed for pitch control. It is located on the horizontal stabilizer at the tail of the aircraft and works by altering the angle of the tail relative to the airflow. When the pilot moves the control yoke or stick backward, the elevator tilts upward, causing the tail of the aircraft to lower and consequently raising the nose; this results in the aircraft climbing. Conversely, pushing the control forward lowers the elevator, raising the tail and causing the nose to drop, which results in descent. This mechanism is crucial for managing the aircraft’s angle of attack and is the primary means of controlling the aircraft's ascent and descent in flight.

The other control surfaces serve different purposes: ailerons are responsible for roll control, the rudder is used to control yaw, and flaps assist in changing the lift characteristics during takeoff and landing. Each plays a vital role in the overall handling of the aircraft, but for pitch control specifically, the elevator is the correct component.