Motor Power Decrease with Altitude - Part 1
Channel: Linda Fahlberg-Stojanovska
Date: 2012-05-06

The maximum power output capability of an internal combustion engine decreases with altitude (sea level) because the air density and hence the mass flow rate of fuel and air decrease. A truck leaves Denver (elevation 5280ft). Denver temperature and barometric pressure are 80°F and 24.8 in of mercury, respectively. It travels through Vail Pass (elevation 10600 ft). The temperature decreases at the rate of 3°F/1000ft of elevation change. Determine the temperature and barometric pressure at Vail Pass and the percent decrease in maximum power available, compared to that at Denver.