What function does a carburetor backfire flame arrestor serve?

A carburetor backfire flame arrestor is designed specifically to enhance safety by preventing explosions in inboard gasoline engines. Its function is to stop flames that may occur from backfires—an event where the fuel/air mixture ignites in the intake manifold instead of the combustion chamber. Without this device, flames could potentially travel back through the carburetor and into the engine compartment, which poses a serious fire hazard. The arrestor works by dissipating the heat and pressure from the backfire, ensuring that flames do not escape and ignite any fuel vapors present in the area.

While the other options may address aspects of engine operation and maintenance, they do not pertain to the specific safety function that a backfire flame arrestor serves. For instance, improvements to fuel efficiency and engine performance typically involve adjustments to the engine's tuning or fuel delivery systems, while preventing gas leaks is usually managed through proper sealing and plumbing of fuel systems. Thus, the primary and correct purpose of a carburetor backfire flame arrestor is to prevent explosions on inboard gasoline engines, safeguarding both the vessel and its occupants.