SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/pilot-detonation-definition

What is detonation in a piston aircraft engine?

An uncontrolled, explosive ignition of the fuel-air mixture in the cylinder.

  1. An uncontrolled, explosive ignition of the fuel-air mixture ✔
  2. Fuel igniting early from a hot spot
  3. A spark plug failing to fire

Why: Normally the mixture burns smoothly. In detonation it explodes all at once, creating heat and pressure that can damage pistons, cylinders or valves. Too low a fuel grade or too lean a mixture can cause it.

Huh, didn't know that: Using the recommended fuel grade and keeping temperature, pressure and RPM in range reduces the chance of detonation.

The dad joke
I'd tell you a joke about engines, but it's a little exhausting.
Like this card?
Play the game

Sources

  1. FAA Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25C), Chapter 7 https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/faa-h-8083-25c.pdf

Test yourself in the game

Flying & DronesPer the FAA, carburetor icing can occur at outside air temperatures as high as about what?Flying & DronesAs an airplane climbs with the mixture left at full rich, the fuel-air mixture becomes what?Flying & DronesWhat usually causes preignition in a piston engine?

That's stuff everyone should know.