Airbreathing Engine
An airbreathing engine is a type of propulsion system that uses atmospheric oxygen to combust fuel, making it efficient for flight within the Earth's atmosphere. Common examples include jet engines and turbofan engines, which are widely used in commercial and military aircraft. These engines draw in air, compress it, mix it with fuel, and ignite the mixture to produce thrust.
Unlike rocket engines, which carry both fuel and oxidizer, airbreathing engines rely on the surrounding air for combustion. This design allows for lighter and more efficient engines at lower altitudes and speeds, making them ideal for various applications in aviation and some hypersonic vehicles.