Which flight maneuver is defined as a rapid descent with a bank over 45 degrees?

The correct answer identifies a spin as a flight maneuver characterized by a rapid descent combined with a bank angle greater than 45 degrees. In a spin, the aircraft enters a condition where one wing experiences more lift than the other, often due to an uncoordinated turn or an attempt to climb too steeply after stalling. This asymmetrical lift causes the aircraft to rotate around its vertical axis while descending rapidly.

During a spin, the yaw and bank are significant, leading to this rapid descent. It is essential for pilots to recognize and understand this maneuver, as recovering from a spin requires specific inputs to regain control of the aircraft.

In contrasting the other options, a stall refers to an aerodynamic condition where the wing exceeds its critical angle of attack, resulting in a loss of lift but does not inherently involve rapid descent with a bank angle. A bank turn is a maneuver that involves maintaining a controlled turn with a bank angle but does not automatically result in a rapid descent. Finally, a glide is a controlled descent where no power is used, and the aircraft typically maintains a stable attitude and does not feature a bank that exceeds 45 degrees. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for safe flight operations.