As far as piloting is concerned, there is a point called being behind the power curve in the landing phase where induced drag exceeds available power and you are going to continue descending no matter how much power is added. Induced drag rises by a power of four as speed decreases. In turbines the power curve is such that at certain speeds it would be impossible to go around if power was reduced to idle. That's why they usually carry power on approach. It is also the reason after putting in full power on a go around you raise the flaps a notch and throw out the dog (kidding). Climb is not possible with that much drag.
The subject of power, efficiency, engine type, and altitude is a complicated subject that does not lend itself to a forum, but a book on aircraft performance like Aircraft Performance and Design by John D. Anderson explains the subject pretty throughly. Each engine has a power curve. The main categories are piston, turboprop, turbojet, high bypass jet, turbojet/high bypass jet with afterburner, and ramjet. They all have their distinct performance patterns with changes of density altitude, forward speed, and rpm. For pilots The Airplane Flying Handbook (FAA 8083) is enough information. Hope this helps.
Last edited by Cubdriver; 06-29-2007 at 02:14 AM.