AFOQT Practice Test

What is a characteristic of a gas turbine engine?

1. It primarily relies on electric motors

2. It burns natural gas to generate thrust

3. It relies on a rotary movement of pistons

4. It is typically used in small aircraft

The correct answer is: It burns natural gas to generate thrust

A gas turbine engine is characterized by its operation through the combustion of fuel, typically aviation fuel or natural gas, which produces high-temperature, high-velocity exhaust that generates thrust. The process involves air being drawn into the engine, compressed, mixed with fuel, and ignited in a combustion chamber. This high-pressure, high-velocity exhaust is expelled out of the rear of the engine, propelling the aircraft forward. The other choices do not accurately describe the fundamental characteristics of a gas turbine engine. For example, gas turbine engines do not primarily rely on electric motors; they are instead based on an internal combustion cycle. The rotary movement of pistons pertains to reciprocating engines rather than gas turbines. Additionally, while gas turbines can be used in small aircraft, they are far more common in larger commercial aircraft and military jets due to their efficiency at high speeds and altitudes.