A supercharger is an air compressor that boosts engine power by increasing air density and pressure, allowing for more efficient fuel combustion. There are several types of superchargers, including roots, centrifugal, and screw types, each with their own advantages and disadvantages regarding efficiency and performance at different RPMs. In contrast, turbochargers, which are powered by exhaust gases, typically offer greater efficiency but have a lag in power delivery compared to supercharged systems.