Induction icing most commonly refers to icing in which system?

• A. Ice that forms on the wings due to cold air.
• B. The most commonly found induction icing is carburetor icing.
• C. Ice that forms on the landing gear.
• D. Icing in the induction system does not affect engine performance.

Answer: (B)

Induction icing is ice forming inside the engine’s air intake path, which reduces the air reaching the cylinders and can cause a loss of power. It most commonly occurs in carburetor systems, because the carburetor’s venturi and throttle area create conditions where moisture in the incoming air can freeze as it passes through, ice forming in the carburetor throat or intake passages and restricting airflow. That restriction starves the engine of air (and thus fuel), leading to rough operation, lower RPM, and power loss. Ice forming on the wings or landing gear is icing on the airframe, not in the induction system, and an induction-ice condition typically does affect performance, so the other options don’t fit. Therefore, the most common induction icing is carburetor icing.