What are the two types of compressors found in gas turbine engines?

In gas turbine engines, the two primary types of compressors are centrifugal flow and axial flow compressors. Centrifugal flow compressors function by converting kinetic energy, imparted to the air, into pressure energy. This is achieved through a rotating impeller that propels the air outward, increasing its velocity and ultimately causing a rise in pressure as the air flows through a diffuser.

On the other hand, axial flow compressors utilize a series of rotating and stationary blades. As air flows axially through these blades, it is compressed continuously. The design of axial flow compressors allows for a high compression ratio and efficient airflow, making them ideal for high-performance applications such as in aircraft engines.

The other choices present types of compressors that do not apply to gas turbine engines; for instance, positive displacement and rotary screw compressors are typically found in other industrial applications and pneumatic systems, while turbo and superchargers are more common in automotive contexts. Radial flow essentially refers to a similar concept as centrifugal, but in terms of specific usage within gas turbines, centrifugal is the more broadly recognized term.