What is the purpose of the emergency oxygen system?

The emergency oxygen system is designed specifically to provide supplemental oxygen in situations where the aircraft experiences a loss of cabin pressure or other emergencies that could compromise the pilot's ability to breathe. This system is crucial in maintaining pilot safety and operational effectiveness under adverse conditions, such as high altitudes where the oxygen levels are insufficient for normal breathing.

In contrast, maintaining pressurization is typically managed by the aircraft's environmental control systems, not the emergency oxygen system. Cooling the cockpit involves air conditioning and ventilation systems, while ejection procedures are supported by other safety mechanisms related to the ejection seat and not directly by the emergency oxygen system. Thus, the primary and essential function of the emergency oxygen system is to ensure that the pilots have access to adequate oxygen during emergencies.