AFTERBURNER Meaning and
Definition
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An afterburner is a device or system commonly used in the aviation industry that provides an additional thrust to a jet engine, particularly during takeoff, maximum power settings, or in situations that require a rapid acceleration. It is essentially a supplementary combustion system that injects and ignites fuel into the exhaust stream of a jet engine, causing an increase in temperature and expanding the exhaust gases further, resulting in a significant boost in aircraft performance.
The afterburner is usually located at the rear section of the engine and is composed of a high-energy ignition system, fuel nozzles, and flame holders. When engaged, the fuel is sprayed into the exhaust gas flow where it mixes and combusts, producing an intense flame. The resulting expanded and heated gases are then expelled at high velocity, generating an augmented thrust, enabling the aircraft to achieve faster speeds and improved climb rates.
While the afterburner provides a remarkable increase in thrust, it comes at the cost of higher fuel consumption, limiting its use to specific operational scenarios. These include combat maneuvers, supersonic flight, emergency situations, or during takeoff and landing. Due to its nature, afterburner usage is generally restricted to shorter durations to conserve fuel and prevent engine overheating or damage.
Overall, the afterburner plays a crucial role in enhancing the performance capabilities of jet engines, allowing aircraft to reach higher speeds and altitudes, making it an essential component for military fighter jets, supersonic aircraft, and certain commercial planes.
Common Misspellings for AFTERBURNER
Etymology of AFTERBURNER
The word "afterburner" is a compound word consisting of "after" and "burner".
The term "after" comes from the Old English word "æfte" which means "in or at the back, behind". It has roots in the Proto-Germanic language.
The word "burner" is derived from the verb "burn" which originated from the Middle English word "burnen" and the Old English word "byrnan". These words have Old Norse and Proto-Germanic origins, respectively.
When combined, "afterburner" refers to the device used in aircraft engines to provide an additional burst of power by injecting fuel into the exhaust flow downstream of the turbine. The term was likely coined to denote that this additional burning of fuel occurs after the main combustion process.
Similar spelling words for AFTERBURNER
- aftermath,
- afterglow,
- after part,
- after all,
- aftermost,
- afterlife,
- afterward,
- after-hours,
- afternoon,
- afterdeck,
- afterdamp,
- aftereffect,
- afterpiece,
- afterimage,
- afterbirth,
- aftercare,
- after hours,
- aftertaste.
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