Here's how it works:
1. Exhaust Gas Flow: The exhaust gases from the engine are channeled through a turbine wheel. The energy of these gases spins the turbine.
2. Turbine-Compressor Connection: The turbine is connected to a compressor wheel via a shaft.
3. Compressor Pressurization: The spinning compressor wheel draws in fresh air and compresses it. This compressed air is then forced into the intake manifold.
4. Increased Air Density: The compressed air has a higher density than normal air, which means it contains more oxygen molecules.
5. Increased Power: The engine can burn more fuel efficiently with this denser air, leading to an increase in power output.
In essence, a turbocharger uses the waste energy from the exhaust gases to create pressurized air for the engine, boosting its performance.