How does a turbojet engine work?

A turbojet is a type of jet engine that operates by passing all incoming air through the combustion chamber. Its operation follows a continuous cycle of induction, compression, combustion, and exhaust:1

• Induction and Compression: Ambient air is drawn into the engine inlet and compressed, typically 10 to 15 times, by a compressor consisting of rotating and stationary blades.1
• Combustion: The compressed air is forced into a combustion chamber where fuel is injected and ignited. This process creates high-temperature gases.21
• Turbine and Exhaust: These expanding hot gases pass through a turbine, which extracts enough energy to drive the compressor via a coaxial shaft. The gases then exit through a nozzle at the rear.312

Forward thrust is generated as a reaction to the high-velocity momentum of the exhaust gases being ejected rearward. Because it relies on rotating parts rather than reciprocating ones, the turbojet is generally simpler, lighter, and more reliable than a reciprocating engine of equivalent power.21