What is the function of the static ports in the airspeed indicator?

The function of the static ports in the airspeed indicator is to provide static air pressure to the instrument. Static pressure is essential for determining the aircraft's airspeed, as it is used to compare against dynamic pressure, which is derived from the pitot tube. The differential between static pressure and dynamic pressure allows the airspeed indicator to calculate and display the aircraft's speed relative to the surrounding air.

Static ports are crucial because they help maintain accuracy in airspeed readings by ensuring that changes in altitude and external air pressure do not skew the measurements. The use of static pressure is foundational in many flight instruments, making it a key aspect of understanding airspeed dynamics in aviation.