A320 is the undisputed leader in single-aisle category. Aircraft can operate from deserts to Antarctica. Family concept enables matching aircraft size to route demand
Turbochargers work by forcing exhaust gases into manifold and spinning turbine. Hot side (turbine) is exhaust side, cold side (compressor) is intake side. Turbochargers can reach speeds over 150,000 RPM under full throttle
Jet propulsion uses fluid jets to move objects in one direction. Most effective when Reynolds number is high and object is large. Pulsed jets are more efficient than continuous ones in animals
HSD is Toyota's hybrid drive train technology for vehicles with Toyota and Lexus brands. First introduced on Prius, later adapted for Mirai and plug-in hybrid Prius. System combines electric drive with planetary gearset for improved efficiency
A320 family launched in 1984 as narrow-body twinjet competition against Boeing 737. First flight occurred in February 1987, first delivery to Air France in April 1988. Program cost estimated at £2 billion ($8 billion today)
Compression ratio is the ratio of maximum to minimum volume during compression. Static ratio measures volume at bottom to top of piston stroke. Dynamic ratio considers gases entering and exiting during compression