What type of drag is created by the production of lift?

The correct choice is induced drag, which arises specifically from the generation of lift. When an aircraft generates lift, the airflow over the wings is altered, creating vortices at the wingtips. These vortices are the result of higher pressure air from below the wing spilling into the lower pressure area above the wing, causing a swirling motion. This phenomenon increases the overall drag experienced by the aircraft.

Induced drag increases with heavier loads and lower speeds, as it is directly tied to how much lift is being produced. During these conditions, the aircraft's wings must work harder to maintain lift, which in turn produces more drag. This is particularly relevant in the context of flight mechanics, where understanding drag types helps pilots and instructors improve performance and efficiency during flight.

The other types of drag mentioned in the options relate to different aerodynamic principles. Skin friction drag is associated with the surface of the aircraft and the friction of air over that surface. Parasite drag is the total drag due to the shape and surface area of the aircraft, not directly related to the production of lift. Form drag, related to the shape of the object moving through the air, also does not stem from lift generation. Hence, the specificity of induced drag to lift production makes it the correct