How a Car Engine Works Animated Infographic

A car engine is a complex machine that converts the chemical energy in gasoline into mechanical energy that powers the car. The basic operation of a car engine is the same for all gasoline-powered vehicles, although there are some variations in design. Here is a simplified overview of how a car engine works:

1. Intake Stroke

The intake stroke begins with the piston at the top of the cylinder. The intake valve opens, allowing air and fuel to be drawn into the cylinder by the downward movement of the piston.

The compression stroke begins with the intake valve closing and the piston moving up the cylinder. This compresses the air and fuel mixture, increasing its temperature and pressure.

The power stroke begins with the spark plug igniting the air and fuel mixture. This causes the mixture to burn rapidly, expanding rapidly and driving the piston down the cylinder.

The exhaust stroke begins with the exhaust valve opening and the piston moving up the cylinder. This forces the exhaust gases out of the cylinder and into the exhaust system.

2. Compression Stroke

The compression stroke is the second stroke of the four-stroke cycle. During the compression stroke, the piston moves up the cylinder, compressing the air and fuel mixture. This increases the temperature and pressure of the mixture, making it more likely to ignite.

3. Power Stroke

The power stroke is the third stroke of the four-stroke cycle. During the power stroke, the spark plug ignites the air and fuel mixture. This causes the mixture to burn rapidly, expanding rapidly and driving the piston down the cylinder. The downward movement of the piston turns the crankshaft, which powers the car.

4. Exhaust Stroke

The exhaust stroke is the fourth and final stroke of the four-stroke cycle. During the exhaust stroke, the exhaust valve opens and the piston moves up the cylinder. This forces the exhaust gases out of the cylinder and into the exhaust system.

The four-stroke cycle is repeated over and over again to power the car. The speed at which the engine runs is controlled by the throttle. The throttle controls the amount of air and fuel that is drawn into the cylinder, which in turn affects the power output of the engine.

Car engines are complex machines, but the basic principles of operation are relatively simple. By understanding how a car engine works, you can better appreciate the engineering that goes into making your car run.