🔍 Key Concepts

• Power-to-weight ratio and what it means for engines • General characteristics of gas turbine engines vs diesel or steam plants • How engine weight affects ship design and performance

💭 Think About

• Think about which type of engine gives the most power for the least amount of weight on board a vessel. • Consider why high‑speed craft, naval vessels, and some fast ferries might choose gas turbines instead of diesel engines. • Ask yourself: for gas turbines, is their main advantage about being light for the power they produce, or about simpler installation and controls?

✅ Before You Answer

• Be clear on the definition of power-to-weight ratio (more power, less weight is better). • Compare in your mind: which engines are usually heaviest for the same power—diesel, steam, or gas turbine? • Verify whether gas turbines are usually chosen because they are heavier or lighter for a given power output.