Which of the following is true regarding the operation of a supercharger?

The operation of a supercharger is fundamentally about increasing the engine's performance by compressing the intake air before it enters the combustion chamber. This process enriches the air-fuel mixture, allowing the engine to burn more fuel and produce more power.

When the intake air is compressed, it becomes denser, which means more oxygen molecules can enter the engine during the intake stroke, leading to more vigorous combustion. This is beneficial for improving engine efficiency and performance at a variety of operating conditions, not just specific altitudes. Hence, the ability to compress the intake air directly is a key function of a supercharger that distinguishes it from other components like turbochargers, which depend on exhaust gases for propulsion. This compressing action provides a notable increase in power across the engine’s operating range, making it a significant enhancement for performance-minded systems.