What is the purpose of transponder codes in aviation?

Transponder codes serve a crucial function in aviation by identifying an aircraft on radar. Each aircraft is assigned a unique transponder code, which is transmitted periodically. This code allows air traffic control (ATC) systems to distinguish one aircraft from another, enhancing situational awareness and safety in busy airspace. The transponder provides information such as the aircraft's altitude and identity, making it easier for controllers to manage multiple flights and coordinate safe separations between them.

While communication of weather updates is important in aviation, transponder codes do not facilitate this. Likewise, although pilot instructions are vital for flight operations, these are communicated through radio transmissions rather than transponder codes. Tracking fuel consumption is a critical aspect of flight management but is not related to what transponder codes are designed to do. Hence, identifying an aircraft on radar is the primary and correct purpose of using transponder codes in aviation.