what is this thing for?
what does it?

sry im a noob

 

wow, what a question. The air intake is what allows air into the throttle body/motor. Aftermarket ones are larger in diameter and most of the time a straigter more direct route. They have cai (cold air intakes) which go lower to the ground which takes colder air from down low. It also can suck in water, which they sell a bypass valve that allows the air to take the easiest route, which wouldn't be sucking water.