What information does the carburetor heat indicator provide?

The carburetor heat indicator provides information about the temperature of the air entering the carburetor. This is crucial for the engine's performance, especially in aircraft where icing conditions can lead to a buildup of ice in the carburetor. When the carburetor heat is applied, warm air is introduced to prevent this icing, and the indicator shows the pilot the effectiveness of this measure by reflecting the temperature of the air being used. If the temperature is too low, it may indicate that ice is forming, while a higher temperature suggests that the system is functioning correctly and the risk of ice accumulation is reduced.

Understanding the temperature of the air entering the carburetor is essential for maintaining optimal engine performance and ensuring safety during flight. The other options provided do not pertain to the function of the carburetor heat indicator; they relate to other important parameters in aviation but are not relevant to managing carburetor temperature.