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Significance
Magnetos, like alternators, are part of an aircraft's ignition system. They operate directly from the power derived from the engine and provide the necessary spark at the top of the cylinder head to achieve combustion.
Function
When the pilot turns the ignition key in an aircraft, a signal is sent to the battery to send power to the starter motor. The starter motor, connected to the crankshaft of the engine, begins to rotate. This in turn causes the armature on the magneto also to rotate, which provides a spark to the cylinder causing combustion. Once combustion is achieved, the magnetos take over for the battery and provide the power for the engine's continuing operation.
Benefits
Magnetos often are preferred as an ignition source in aircraft engines rather than alternators due to the fact that magneto-based ignition systems do not require the continuing use of the battery for operation. In an automobile, the ignition system, which includes an alternator, routes power through and continues to use the car's battery during operation of the vehicle.