Benefits of supercharging: Compared with a naturally aspirated engine delivering the same power, a supercharged engine can be ________ in mass and infrastructure requirements, and may show reduced lubricating oil consumption per kWh.

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: all of these

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Supercharging increases the density of the intake charge, enabling higher specific power from the same displacement. Comparing engines at equal power output clarifies practical benefits in weight, installation, and operating metrics.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Comparison is at equal delivered shaft power.
  • Supercharged engine uses a compressor (mechanical or exhaust-driven turbo) to increase manifold pressure.
  • Foundation size relates to engine mass and envelope for the same power.


Concept / Approach:
By increasing air mass flow per cycle, a supercharged engine can achieve the target power with smaller displacement. A smaller, lighter engine and correspondingly reduced foundation requirements follow. Oil consumption per unit energy often improves because bearing loads scale with absolute torque at a given size, and modern boosted engines are optimized for sealing and oil control.



Step-by-Step Solution:

Boost raises intake density → more fuel burned efficiently per cycle.For a fixed power target, select a smaller engine → lighter mass.Smaller engine footprint → smaller foundations/supports.Optimized boosted operation often reduces specific lubricating oil consumption.


Verification / Alternative check:
Industry practice shows downsized, turbocharged engines replacing larger naturally aspirated units for equal power with lower mass and compact installations, supporting the statements.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Each individual statement is generally true at equal power; hence choosing anything less than “all of these” omits benefits.



Common Pitfalls:
Confusing absolute oil use with specific (per kWh) consumption; boosted engines may use similar total oil at high load but less per unit energy compared with a larger NA engine of equal power.



Final Answer:
all of these

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