What process occurs in an axial compressor with the rotors and stators?

In an axial compressor, the primary function revolves around the interaction between the rotors and stators to manipulate the gas flow. The correct option highlights that the compressor's design is specifically aimed at increasing the gas velocity as it passes through the rotor stages.

In this process, the rotors, which are essentially rotating blades, impart kinetic energy to the incoming air or gas, significantly increasing its velocity. As the gas moves through the rotating blades, it gains speed due to the conversion of mechanical energy from the rotation into gas kinetic energy. Following the rotor stages, the gas moves through stationary stator blades, which help diffuse the high-velocity gas flow.

During this stage, the gas experiencing increased velocity transitions into a format that aids in increasing its pressure. So, while it appears counterintuitive that velocity translates into pressure, the principles of fluid dynamics confirm that the kinetic energy of increased velocity contributes to a rise in pressure, particularly as the gas slows down through the stator sections.

In summary, the axial compressor effectively utilizes its rotors to increase gas velocity, converting that increased velocity into higher pressure as the gas exits the compressor, making the statement about increasing gas velocity and converting it to pressure accurate.