An intake is an opening, structure or system through which a fluid is admitted to a space or machine as a consequence of a pressure differential between the outside and the inside. The pressure difference may be generated on the inside by a mechanism, or on the outside by ram pressure or hydrostatic pressure. Flow rate through the intake depends on pressure difference, fluid properties, and intake geometry.
Dassault Super Mystère showing entry to engine intake duct
Automotive intake assembly showing pink air filter, plastic ducting with sensors, metal throttle body and plastic manifold with plenum and runners
A carburetor is a device used by a gasoline internal combustion engine to control and mix air and fuel entering the engine. The primary method of adding fuel to the intake air is through the Venturi tube in the main metering circuit, though various other components are also used to provide extra fuel or air in specific circumstances.
Two-barrel downdraft Holley 2280 carburetor
1979 Evinrude Type I side draft carburetor
Nomenclature for a single-barrel carburetor
Holley "Visi-Flo" model #1904 carburetors from the 1950s, factory equipped with transparent glass bowls