The main purpose of the tail rotor is to:

The main purpose of the tail rotor on a helicopter is to counteract the torque effect generated by the main rotor. When the main rotor spins in one direction, it creates a torque that tends to rotate the helicopter's body in the opposite direction. Without a tail rotor, the helicopter would spin uncontrollably in the opposite direction of the rotor blades' spin.

By providing a horizontal thrust in the opposite direction of the torque, the tail rotor stabilizes the helicopter and allows the pilot to maintain control. This counteracting force is crucial for effective and safe flight operations, enabling the helicopter to maneuver and hover without unwanted rotation.

Understanding the role of the tail rotor in counteracting torque is fundamental for anyone involved in aviation, particularly for those training in helicopter operations, as it directly affects the control dynamics of the aircraft.