What is the role of the turbocharger in an engine?

The role of the turbocharger in an engine is primarily to increase engine power by forcing more air into the combustion chamber. Turbochargers work by using exhaust gases to spin a turbine, which in turn drives a compressor that draws in and compresses ambient air. This compressed air has a higher density and allows for a greater amount of oxygen to be available during combustion. With more oxygen, the engine can burn more fuel, resulting in increased power output without needing to increase the engine size.

This process enhances overall engine performance and efficiency, particularly in smaller engines, allowing them to generate output comparable to larger engines while maintaining better fuel economy. The ability of a turbocharger to significantly boost power output is why it is a critical component in modern performance engines.