In a gas turbine engine, which component drives the compressor by converting exhaust energy into mechanical energy?

• A. Compressor
• B. Combustor
• C. Nozzle
• D. Turbine

Answer: (D)

The turbine is the component that drives the compressor by converting energy from the hot exhaust gases into mechanical shaft power. After fuel is burned in the combustor, the resulting high-energy gas expands through the turbine blades. This expansion transfers energy from the gas to the turbine, causing it to spin. The turbine is connected via a shaft to the compressor (and any other accessories), so that shaft power carries the compressor’s rotation and keeps the cycle circulating. The nozzle, while important for producing thrust by expanding and directing the exhaust, does not drive the compressor. The compressor itself is what receives the drive from the turbine.