Which component supports the landing gear system in the Cessna 172?

The correct choice is the shock absorbers, which play a crucial role in supporting the landing gear system of the Cessna 172. Shock absorbers, also known as oleo struts, are specifically designed to absorb the energy from the landing impact and provide a smoother landing experience by dampening the oscillations that can occur during touchdown. They help in maintaining proper alignment of the aircraft's landing gear and contribute to the overall stability and control during landing and takeoff.

While hydraulic actuators are utilized in some aircraft systems to control movement, they are not employed in the landing gear system of the Cessna 172; the landing gear is a mechanically operated system. Electric motors are also not applicable here, as the Cessna 172 does not use electric motors to extend or retract its landing gear; it operates on a fixed gear system. Gravity drop mechanisms are found in some aircraft with retractable landing gear but do not pertain to the Cessna 172's fixed landing gear system. Thus, the shock absorbers are the integral component specifically designed to manage the effects of landing and support the overall landing gear structure.