Briefly describe how an engine works?
3 Answers
Engine working principle is: The battery provides electrical energy, under the control of the ignition switch and starter relay, the starter converts electrical energy into mechanical energy, driving the engine flywheel ring gear and crankshaft to rotate. Only when this starting cycle is completed can the engine enter self-sustaining operation. The car starting system working process: 1. Turn the ignition switch to ON position with the key, the dashboard powers on, and after several seconds the car enters ready-to-start state; 2. Turn the ignition switch to START position, connecting the battery and starting system circuit; 3. The starter relay receives power; 4. After the starter receives power, the main shaft rotates under electromagnetic force; 5. The drive gear on the starter's main shaft rotates, driving the engine flywheel and crankshaft to turn; 6. Under normal circumstances, after a brief starting process, the engine can enter automatic operation state.
When we start the engine, it operates like a giant ventilator. The first step is the intake process: the engine draws in a mixture of air and gasoline, similar to how our lungs inhale oxygen. Next comes the compression stage: the piston moves upward, tightly compressing the mixture to increase its energy density. The third step is combustion: the spark plug ignites the mixture, causing a violent explosion that pushes the piston downward, generating power. Finally, the exhaust stage: the piston moves upward to expel the waste gases from the cylinder, clearing space. This process repeats dozens of times per second, converting chemical energy into mechanical energy to drive the wheels. The engine relies on a series of precisely coordinated pistons and crankshafts, operating efficiently but requiring regular maintenance, such as oil changes to maintain lubrication. The core of the entire process is energy conversion, ensuring the car moves forward smoothly.
The working principle of an engine may sound complex, but it's essentially a four-step cycle. The intake stroke opens the valves, drawing in air and fuel. The compression stroke compresses the mixture, preparing it for combustion. The power stroke ignites the explosive mixture, driving the piston to generate power. The exhaust stroke expels waste gases to clear the space. This cycle relies on spark plug ignition, valve coordination, and piston movement to convert thermal energy into mechanical energy. When driving, it's like a heartbeat: suck, squeeze, bang, blow continuously. Engine health affects fuel consumption and performance, and regular checks of spark plugs and filters can extend its lifespan. Maintaining a balanced air-fuel ratio is key to avoiding ignition delays or knocking issues.
