What is a potential consequence of not using an intercooler with a supercharger?

Using a supercharger compresses the intake air, which can significantly increase the temperature of the air charge entering the engine. If an intercooler is not utilized, the temperature of the compressed air can remain elevated. This higher temperature can lead to increased risk of detonation, which occurs when the air-fuel mixture ignites prematurely. Detonation can cause knocking, which is harmful to engine components and can lead to engine damage or failure. Incorporating an intercooler helps to cool the compressed air before it enters the combustion chamber, thereby reducing the likelihood of detonation and ensuring more efficient engine operation.

The other options do not align with the direct consequences of omitting an intercooler. For instance, overcooling the fuel charge is not a concern, as high temperatures from compression will not result in overcooling. The notion of improved air mixture is misleading without a cooler intake charge. Lastly, while it is true that efficiency may drop due to detonation, the most immediate and critical concern directly related to the lack of an intercooler is the increased risk of detonation itself.