What is the definition of the Main Rotor in rotorcraft?

The Main Rotor in rotorcraft is defined as the rotor that generates the primary lift. This rotor is critical for the helicopter's ability to ascend, descend, and hover in the air. It plays a crucial role because the lift generated by the main rotor is what enables the helicopter to overcome gravity, allowing it to take off and maintain flight.

Lift is created as the rotor blades rotate and move through the air, creating a pressure difference above and below the blades. This aerodynamic principle is what allows helicopters, as rotorcraft, to stay airborne. Each component of the rotorcraft plays a role in flight, but the main rotor is specifically designed and oriented to produce the majority of the lift necessary for flight operations. Other rotors, such as tail rotors or auxiliary rotors, serve different functions, including control, stabilization, or providing additional thrust, but they do not generate the primary lift required for the helicopter to operate.