What is the purpose of a mass air flow sensor in the Audi 80?

I recently purchased a used Audi 80 and noticed that it has a mass air flow sensor. What is this component and how does it affect the performance of my vehicle?

The mass air flow sensor is responsible for measuring the amount of air entering the engine and sending that information to the engine's computer. It helps the engine determine the correct amount of fuel to mix with the incoming air and ensures optimal performance.