The primary and transfer jet pumps are operated by what mechanism?

The primary and transfer jet pumps in the T-6 aircraft operate based on Venturi flow principles. This mechanism utilizes the Venturi effect, wherein fluid flow through a constricted section of a pipe causes a pressure drop. In the case of the jet pumps, fuel flows through a nozzle, creating a low-pressure area that draws additional fuel from the surrounding fuel tank, facilitating the transfer and supply of fuel to the engine.

The effectiveness of jet pumps is rooted in their ability to leverage fluid dynamics to move liquid without the need for moving parts, making them reliable and efficient. This principle is crucial for ensuring consistent fuel delivery under varying conditions, which is essential for the proper functioning of the aircraft's propulsion system.

In contrast, positive displacement refers to mechanisms that move fluid by physically displacing it, typically in a set volume. Gravity flow relies on the natural force of gravity to move substances, which wouldn't effectively manage the fuel flow requirements of a jet pump system. Mechanical action implies moving parts are involved, which is not the case with jet pumps since they operate based purely on fluid dynamics and pressure changes.