How Car Engine Works for Dummies

Introduction

A car engine is a complex machine that converts the chemical energy in gasoline into mechanical energy that can be used to power the car. The basic principle behind how a car engine works is simple: fuel is burned in a cylinder, which creates expanding gases that push a piston. The piston is connected to a crankshaft, which converts the linear motion of the piston into rotary motion. This rotary motion is then used to power the car’s wheels.

In this article, we will take a closer look at how a car engine works, from the basics of combustion to the different types of engines that are used in cars today.

The Four-Stroke Cycle

The four-stroke cycle is the most common type of engine cycle used in cars today. It is a four-step process that begins with the intake stroke.

Intake Stroke

During the intake stroke, the piston moves down the cylinder, creating a vacuum that draws air and fuel into the cylinder through the intake valve. The intake valve is then closed, trapping the air and fuel in the cylinder.

Compression Stroke

Once the intake valve is closed, the piston begins to move back up the cylinder, compressing the air and fuel mixture. This increases the pressure and temperature of the mixture, making it more likely to ignite.

Power Stroke

At the top of the compression stroke, the spark plug ignites the air and fuel mixture. This creates a rapid expansion of gases, which pushes the piston back down the cylinder. This is known as the power stroke.

Exhaust Stroke

After the power stroke, the exhaust valve opens, allowing the exhaust gases to escape from the cylinder. The piston then moves back up the cylinder, pushing the exhaust gases out of the exhaust valve. This is known as the exhaust stroke.

The Different Types of Car Engines

There are two main types of car engines: gasoline engines and diesel engines.

Gasoline Engines

Gasoline engines are the most common type of engine used in cars today. They use a spark plug to ignite the air and fuel mixture in the cylinder. Gasoline engines are relatively efficient and produce good power, but they can also be noisy and polluting.

Diesel Engines

Diesel engines are more efficient than gasoline engines and produce less pollution. However, they are also more expensive to purchase and maintain. Diesel engines use a compression stroke to ignite the air and fuel mixture in the cylinder. This means that diesel engines have a higher compression ratio than gasoline engines, which makes them more efficient.

Conclusion

Car engines are complex machines, but the basic principles behind how they work are relatively simple. By understanding the four-stroke cycle and the different types of car engines, you can better understand how your car works and how to keep it running smoothly.