What is the purpose of an intercooler in a turbocharged engine?

The purpose of an intercooler in a turbocharged engine is to cool the intake air before it enters the combustion chamber. When air is compressed by the turbocharger, its temperature rises significantly. Hot air is less dense, which means it carries less oxygen. As a result, a turbocharged engine can benefit greatly from cooling the intake air to increase its density, allowing for more oxygen to be packed into the combustion chamber. This subsequently leads to improved combustion efficiency and increased power output.

Cooling the intake air with an intercooler can also prevent engine knock, which can occur when the air-fuel mixture ignites prematurely due to high temperatures. By keeping the intake air cooler, the intercooler helps maintain optimal operating conditions for the engine, leading to better performance and reliability.