Car Engine Picture with Labels
Engine Components
Cylinder Head
- Intake valves
- Exhaust valves
- Spark plugs
- Camshaft
Cylinder Block
- Cylinders
- Pistons
- Crankshaft
- Oil pan
Intake Manifold
- Throttle body
- Fuel injectors
- Air filter
Exhaust Manifold
- Exhaust valves
- Catalytic converter
- Muffler
Timing Belt
- Camshaft
- Crankshaft
- Water pump
Oil Filter
- Filters oil
- Protects engine
Spark Plugs
- Ignite fuel
- Power engine
Fuel Injectors
- Inject fuel into cylinders
- Control air-fuel mixture
Engine Operation
The engine is the heart of a car. It converts fuel into power that drives the wheels. The engine is made up of many different components, each of which plays a specific role in the engine’s operation.
The first step in the engine’s operation is the intake stroke. During the intake stroke, the intake valves open and the piston moves down the cylinder. This creates a vacuum that draws air and fuel into the cylinder.
The next step is the compression stroke. During the compression stroke, the intake valves close and the piston moves up the cylinder. This compresses the air and fuel mixture, making it more combustible.
The third step is the power stroke. During the power stroke, the spark plug ignites the air and fuel mixture. This creates a controlled explosion that drives the piston down the cylinder. The downward motion of the piston turns the crankshaft, which in turn drives the wheels.
The fourth and final step is the exhaust stroke. During the exhaust stroke, the exhaust valves open and the piston moves up the cylinder. This forces the exhaust gases out of the cylinder and into the exhaust manifold.
The engine then repeats this cycle over and over again, creating the power that drives the car.
