Introduction to Aircraft Engines – Key Concepts (Piston vs. Gas Turbine)

A set of Q&A flashcards covering the core concepts from the notes on piston engines, gas turbines, and the future of aviation propulsion.

What are the two main types of aircraft engines discussed in the notes?

Piston (reciprocating) engines and gas turbine (jet) engines.

What is the basic principle behind a piston engine's operation?

Igniting fuel to turn a propeller.

What is another name for the piston engine?

Reciprocating engine.

Since when have piston engines powered aircraft?

Since the Wright brothers took to the air, over 100 years ago.

Do piston engines operate in isolation or rely on other systems? Name some systems.

They rely on systems to deliver fuel, provide a spark, and remove heat.

What is a key limitation of piston engines compared to jet engines?

They can only produce a limited amount of thrust.

Which type of engine powers large aircraft?

Gas turbine engines (jet engines).

What is the basic principle of a gas turbine engine?

Pushing air out the back of the engine as quickly as possible.

From which decade did gas turbine engines become reliable for aircraft use?

The 1940s.

How have gas turbine engines evolved in aircraft applications?

They enabled very large aircraft to fly and have become compact enough to replace piston engines in some small aircraft.

What future propulsion options are discussed for aviation?

Electric and hydrogen engines.

What challenges exist for electric or hydrogen engines in aviation?

A range of challenges must be overcome to make them suitable for aviation.

Why is it important for pilots to understand how their engine works?

To avoid problems and to extract maximum performance, climb higher, and fly more efficiently; and to be prepared if something goes wrong.