Why must fuel system components be bonded and grounded?

The correct answer focuses on the importance of draining off static charges. In aircraft fuel systems, the movement of fuel can generate static electricity, which poses a significant risk of fire or explosion during fueling operations. Static charges can accumulate on fuel system components, leading to a dangerous situation if a spark occurs. Bonding and grounding the fuel system components provide a path for these static charges to safely dissipate into the ground. This is crucial for maintaining safety during fueling and operations, as it minimizes the risk of ignition caused by static discharge.

While reducing fuel temperature, preventing corrosion, and ensuring proper fuel flow are indeed important aspects of fuel system management, these factors do not directly address the critical safety concern of static electricity. Therefore, the most relevant reason for bonding and grounding fuel system components is to effectively mitigate the risks associated with static electricity.