In the context of gas turbine engines, what does the compressor section primarily do?

The compressor section in a gas turbine engine plays a crucial role in the overall operation of the engine by increasing both pressure and airflow. As ambient air enters the compressor, it is drawn into a series of rotating blades that spin at high speeds. This spinning action compresses the air, raising its pressure significantly. The increase in pressure is essential because it allows for more efficient combustion in the combustion chamber that follows.

Additionally, as the air is compressed, its temperature also increases slightly due to the principle of adiabatic compression; however, the primary function of the compressor is to raise both the pressure and the mass flow rate of the air entering the combustion chamber. This high-pressure and high-flow air mix with fuel for combustion, creating the high-energy exhaust that drives the turbine section of the engine. Therefore, the correct answer highlights not only the increase in pressure but also the enhancement of airflow, which is fundamental for the engine to produce thrust effectively.