FAA Powerplant Written Practice Test

A fire detection system operates on the principle of a buildup of gas pressure within a tube proportional to temperature. Which system does this describe?

1. Lindbergh Continuous-Element System

2. Photoelectric Smoke Detector

3. Thermocouple System

4. Ionic Fire Detection System

The correct answer is: Lindbergh Continuous-Element System

The system described operates on the principle of gas pressure buildup within a tube as temperature increases, which is characteristic of the Lindbergh Continuous-Element System. This system uses a continuous element that responds to rising temperatures by generating a corresponding increase in gas pressure, allowing it to detect fires more effectively. The design is specifically oriented towards amplifying the temperature changes associated with a fire, making it sensitive and efficient for fire detection in aircraft. Other systems mentioned, such as the Photoelectric Smoke Detector, work based on light scattering caused by smoke particles and do not rely on temperature-induced pressure changes. The Thermocouple System measures temperature via voltage changes in dissimilar metals but does not utilize gas pressure as a detection mechanism. The Ionic Fire Detection System detects smoke through ionization processes rather than pressure changes. Thus, the Lindbergh Continuous-Element System is uniquely suited to the principle mentioned in the question.