Supercharging in internal combustion engines A supercharger draws air from the surrounding atmosphere, compresses it to a higher intake pressure, and then delivers this pressurised air to the engine intake valve or intake manifold. Evaluate the correctness of this description of a supercharger's basic function.

Introduction / Context:
Supercharging is a classic method to increase the mass of air inducted per cycle so that more fuel can be burned without exceeding safe air–fuel limits. This raises the indicated mean effective pressure and power density. The question asks whether the concise operational description of a supercharger is correct.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Air is drawn from ambient surroundings.
• A mechanical compressor raises intake pressure above atmospheric.
• Pressurised air is supplied to the intake valve or manifold before the intake stroke.
• No restriction to a specific engine type is implied; concept applies to both SI and CI engines.

Concept / Approach:
A supercharger is an air compressor mechanically driven by the engine crankshaft (gears, belt, or direct coupling). Unlike a turbocharger, it does not use exhaust gas energy for the turbine drive. Its essential function is to increase intake air pressure and density, boosting trapped air mass per cycle and enabling higher fuel flow at similar equivalence ratios.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify the medium handled: fresh atmospheric air, not exhaust gas.Identify the process: compression to a higher-than-ambient pressure.Identify delivery: compressed air fed to intake port/valve/manifold.Match with definition: this is precisely the purpose and pathway of a supercharger.

Verification / Alternative check:
Manufacturer schematics show the supercharger upstream of the intake manifold. Intercoolers may be added for charge temperature control but are not required to satisfy the core definition.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Incorrect: contradicts the accepted definition.
• Correct only for diesel: SI engines are supercharged as well.
• Correct only with intercooling: intercooling is beneficial but optional.
• Exhaust-only handling: describes turbocharger turbine flow, not a supercharger.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing turbocharging (exhaust-driven) with supercharging (mechanically driven). Both compress intake air, but the energy source differs.

Final Answer:
Correct