What roles do the engine, propellers, or jet turbines play in providing thrust to overcome drag and maintain flight?

When an aircraft is in flight, it must overcome two types of forces: drag and gravity. To achieve this, it must have a source of thrust to move forward through the air. This is where the engine, propellers, or jet turbines come into play, as they are responsible for generating the necessary thrust to overcome drag and maintain flight.

The engine is the primary source of power for the aircraft, and it works by burning fuel to produce energy. This energy is then used to turn the propellers or jet turbines, which in turn produce thrust. The amount of thrust generated depends on the power output of the engine and the efficiency of the propellers or jet turbines.

Propellers are typically used on smaller aircraft, and they work by spinning like a fan to create a forward thrust. Jet turbines, on the other hand, are used on larger aircraft and work by compressing air and then burning fuel to expand the air and create a forward thrust.

Overall, the engine, propellers, and jet turbines are all essential components of an aircraft, as they work together to provide the necessary thrust to overcome drag and maintain flight.