A turbocharged engine is an internal combustion engine that uses a turbine to increase the amount of air entering the cylinders, resulting in increased power output and efficiency. The term “turbo” refers to the use of a turbine, which is a type of rotary mechanical device that can convert potential energy into kinetic energy by utilizing the expansion of gases.
In a typical gasoline engine, air enters through an intake manifold and is drawn in by the vacuum created as the pistons compress the fuel-air mixture during the power stroke. However, this process has limitations due to atmospheric pressure, which restricts how much air can be forced into the cylinders.
A turbocharger works by using a portion of the exhaust gases from the engine to spin the turbine, which in turn compresses more air than would otherwise be possible and forces it back into the intake manifold. This results in a higher concentration of fuel-air mixture being drawn into the cylinders during each intake stroke, allowing for greater power output while maintaining efficiency.
Overall, a turbocharged engine is capable of producing more horsepower than its naturally aspirated counterpart due to the increased airflow and resulting improved combustion.