FAA Powerplant Written Practice Test

What is the main purpose of a turbocharger in an aircraft engine?

1. To improve fuel efficiency

2. To increase engine power output

3. To reduce noise emissions

4. To enhance cooling efficiency

The correct answer is: To increase engine power output

The main purpose of a turbocharger in an aircraft engine is to increase engine power output. A turbocharger works by using exhaust gases to spin a turbine connected to a compressor, which forces more air into the engine's intake manifold. This process allows the engine to burn more fuel and produce more power, especially at higher altitudes where the air density is lower. When the aircraft ascends, atmospheric pressure and air density decrease, which can lead to a reduction in engine performance. The turbocharger compensates for this loss by ensuring that the engine continues to receive an adequate supply of air, maintaining higher performance levels as the aircraft gains altitude. While improving fuel efficiency and reducing noise emissions might be secondary benefits of a turbocharger, they are not its primary purpose. Similarly, enhancing cooling efficiency is not a function of the turbocharger, as its main role focuses on boosting power output effectively.