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Aircraft systems and instrumentsQuestion 613 of 934

What is the main difference between a supercharger and a turbocharger?

  1. A turbocharger is driven by the engine; a supercharger is powered by exhaust gas
  2. A turbocharger cools the oil; a supercharger heats the air
  3. A turbocharger is powered by exhaust gas; a supercharger is driven by the engine
  4. A turbocharger runs on fuel; a supercharger runs on oil
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Correct answer: A turbocharger is powered by exhaust gas; a supercharger is driven by the engine

Both compress the intake air to increase its density. The turbocharger recovers energy from exhaust gases.

Source: Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25C), Chapter 7: Aircraft Systems — Superchargers and Turbosuperchargers, page 172

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Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026