Final answer:
A turbocharger uses exhaust gases to compress air into the combustion chamber, resulting in efficient power but with turbo lag, while a supercharger is mechanically driven for immediate power at the cost of efficiency.
Step-by-step explanation:
A turbocharger and a supercharger are both types of forced induction systems used to increase an engine's efficiency and power output by pumping extra air into the combustion chamber. However, they differ in their source of power. A turbocharger uses the exhaust gases of the engine to spin a turbine, which in turn drives a compressor that forces air into the combustion chamber. This process recycles energy from the exhaust, making turbochargers efficient but with a slight delay known as turbo lag before they fully engage as the exhaust volume builds up.
In contrast, a supercharger is mechanically driven by the engine's crankshaft, typically through a belt or chain. This direct connection provides an immediate power boost without the lag associated with turbochargers but can be less efficient since it requires engine power to operate.
Both systems increase the oxygen available for combustion, allowing the gasoline engine to burn fuel more completely and produce more power. Nonetheless, each has its advantages and trade-offs in terms of efficiency, cost, and performance characteristics.