Airplane Engine Fundamentals

The video tutorial explains the components and functions of an airplane's powerplant, focusing on the reciprocating engine. It details the four-stroke cycle, including intake, compression, ignition, and exhaust. The tutorial also covers engine cooling, temperature management, and the issues of detonation and pre-ignition, emphasizing the importance of maintaining proper engine temperature to prevent damage.

What are the main components of an airplane's powerplant?

• Landing gear, cockpit, and seats

• Fuel tank, wheels, and rudder

• Wings, tail, and fuselage

• Engine, propeller, and engine accessories

What is the primary function of the reciprocating engine in an airplane?

• To store fuel

• To control the airplane's direction

• To provide lift

• To produce power by burning gasoline

During which stroke of the four-stroke cycle does the spark plug ignite the fuel-air mixture?

• Ignition or power stroke

• Compression stroke

• Intake stroke

• Exhaust stroke

What is the role of the camshaft in a reciprocating engine?

• To cool the engine

• To open and close the intake and exhaust valves

• To store fuel

• To provide thrust

Which cylinder arrangement is most common in small airplanes?

• Opposed

• V type

• Inline

• Radial

How are airplane engines cooled?

• By outside air

• By water

• By oil

• By fuel

What can excessively high engine temperatures cause?

• Improved fuel efficiency

• Loss of power and excessive oil consumption

• Increased lift

• Faster climb rate

What is detonation in an airplane engine?

• The engine stopping

• The engine starting

• Fuel exploding suddenly inside the cylinder

• The engine running smoothly

What can cause pre-ignition in an airplane engine?

• Cold weather

• Hot spots inside the engine or an overheating spark plug

• Low fuel levels

• High altitude

How can a pilot prevent detonation in an airplane engine?

• By using more fuel

• By flying at higher altitudes

• By keeping the engine temperature within recommended limits

• By increasing the engine temperature