What is the purpose of grounding an aircraft?

The purpose of grounding an aircraft primarily involves discharging static electricity into the earth or deck. During flight, aircraft can accumulate static charges due to various factors, such as friction with air and precipitation. This static electricity can pose risks, particularly during fueling operations, as it could lead to sparks and potential fires. Grounding helps ensure safety by providing a direct pathway for these charges to safely dissipate into the ground or deck, thus minimizing the risk of ignition.

While other options may address important aspects of aircraft operation and safety, they do not directly relate to the primary function of grounding. Grounding is all about managing static electricity, which is crucial for preventing fire hazards during refueling and maintaining safe operations on the flight deck or tarmac.