How Does an Engine Work?
3 Answers
Engine works by converting internal energy into mechanical energy. Introduction to Engine: An engine (Engine) is a machine that can convert other forms of energy into mechanical energy, including internal combustion engines (reciprocating piston engines), external combustion engines (Stirling engines, steam engines, etc.), jet engines, electric motors, etc. Function of Engine: The automobile engine is the device that provides power for the car, serving as the heart of the automobile, determining its power, fuel efficiency, stability, and environmental friendliness. Classification of Engine: Depending on the power source, automobile engines can be divided into diesel engines, gasoline engines, electric vehicle motors, and hybrid power systems, etc.
Last time when the car was being repaired, the mechanic gestured to me how the engine works. Imagine four metal cans (cylinders) lined up in a row, each with a piston moving up and down like a bicycle pump. During the intake stroke, the piston pulls down, sucking the air-fuel mixture into the cylinder; the compression stroke squeezes upward, compressing the mixture into a thin pancake; the spark plug clicks and ignites, causing a bang that kicks the piston downward—this is called the power stroke; finally, the exhaust stroke pushes out the waste gases. These four steps work in a cycle, with the crankshaft converting the piston's up-and-down motion into the wheel's rotational motion, much like pedaling a bicycle. The faster the speed, the more fuel it consumes, but the more explosive power it delivers.
I reckon an engine works like an energy converter. The moment you press the accelerator, gasoline gets atomized and mixes with air before rushing into the combustion chamber. The piston compresses this mixture tightly, then the spark plug fires a spark to ignite it instantly—that explosive force slams the piston downward. The connecting rod whips the crankshaft into a spinning frenzy, converting that motion into the power that turns the wheels. Unburned exhaust gases puff out black smoke from the tailpipe, while coolant circulates around the engine block to prevent overheating. This process—heat transforming into force, force into rotation—relies on the fuel line as its lifeline and the spark plug as the starting pistol. Remember to change the oil regularly to keep all components gliding smoothly in sync.
