How are aircraft typically steered on the ground?

Aircraft are typically steered on the ground by pushing the rudder pedals. When the pilot presses the rudder pedals, the tailwheel or nose wheel is moved in the desired direction due to differential steering capabilities; this allows for precise control during taxiing. The front of the aircraft can pivot around the wheel axis, which enables the aircraft to maneuver effectively on ground surfaces.

Other methods like using the control yoke primarily control pitch and roll in flight rather than ground maneuvering. Throttle adjustments can influence speed but do not directly steer the aircraft on the ground. Turning the flaps is also unrelated to steering; flaps are primarily used to enhance lift during takeoff and landing rather than for ground navigation. Thus, the correct understanding of ground steering mechanisms aligns closely with the function of the rudder pedals.