It depends on the year, make and model but many vehicles use a MAF (Mass Air Flow) sensor.
A "mass airflow" sensor, measures the amount of air entering an engine to properly calculate the amount of fuel that is needed.
No, the MAF measures the amount of air entering the engine, while the idle control valve controls the amount of air at idle.
It controls the amount of air entering the engine when the throttle is closed, controlling the idle speed..
The mass air flow sensor is located directly in the engine compartment. The MAF measures the temperature of the air and the amount of air entering the engine.
When you step on the pedal, the throttle valve opens to allow entry of air. The engine control unit increases the fuel rate to allow more air into the engine. Sensors monitor the amount of air entering the engine.
An air intake filter is what blocks dust particles from entering into you engine. It is an air purifier which cleans the air your engine takes in.
The idle air control valve is a stepper motor which regulates the amount of air entering the engine during idle and other times during an engine's run period, such as deceleration, or when the A/C compressor is in use.
Increase the amount and pressure of air entering the cylinders.
Measures to amount of air entering the intake
Diesels run on compressed fuel and air. An injector pump sprays fuel into the cylinder and mixes it with the air. When the piston rises to the top of the cylinder it compresses the fuel / air mixture and causes the mixture to ignite powering the engine. The speed of the engine is controled by the throttle plate which controls the amount of air entering the engine as well as the metering valve on the diesel pump which controls the amount of fuel that is sprayed into the cylinder.
Supercharger
To cool the charge air before it entering to the cylinder.