Which component of a drumkit consists of two cymbals that are hit with a stick and opened/closed with a foot pedal?

The correct choice is the hi-hat cymbals, which are a fundamental component of a drumkit. Hi-hat cymbals consist of two cymbals mounted on a stand, one positioned above the other. A foot pedal allows the drummer to open and close the cymbals to create different sounds and effects.

When the pedal is pressed down, the cymbals come together, producing a tight, crisp sound. When the pedal is released, the cymbals are allowed to separate, creating a more sustained, washy sound. This ability to modulate the sound with the foot pedal is unique to the hi-hat and is an essential feature for creating various rhythmic patterns in drumming.

In contrast, crash cymbals are typically used for accents and do not feature a pedal mechanism. Ride cymbals serve a different purpose, predominantly used for maintaining a steady rhythm, and similarly, suspended cymbals are generally used in orchestral settings and played with sticks without any closing mechanism. Thus, the hi-hat stands out as the component that incorporates both the striking mechanism and pedal control for dynamic performance.