How does a car engine work?

Gasoline (Petrol/Diesel) engines are the most common type of internal combustion engine used in cars. They are composed of several key components that work together to convert gasoline into mechanical energy that can power the car. Here are some of the major components of a gasoline engine:

1. Engine block: The engine block is the main structural component of the engine that houses the cylinders, pistons, and crankshaft. It is typically made of cast iron or aluminum.

2. Cylinders: The cylinders are the chambers where fuel is burned to produce power. Most engines have four, six, or eight cylinders arranged in a line (inline), V-shape, or flat configuration.

3. Pistons: Pistons are cylindrical components that fit inside the cylinders and move up and down as fuel is burned. They are connected to the crankshaft by a connecting rod and transfer the energy from the fuel combustion to the crankshaft.

4. Crankshaft: The crankshaft is a rotating shaft that converts the linear motion of the pistons into rotational motion that can power the car. It is connected to the transmission and ultimately the wheels.

5. Camshaft: The camshaft is a rotating shaft that operates the engine's valves, which regulate the flow of air and fuel into and out of the engine. It is typically driven by the crankshaft through a timing belt or chain.

6. Valves: The engine has intake and exhaust valves that open and close to allow air and fuel into the engine and to let exhaust gases out. The camshaft operates these valves through a system of rocker arms, lifters, and pushrods.

7. Spark plugs: Spark plugs are components that ignite the air/fuel mixture in the cylinders to start the combustion process. They are typically located on the top of the cylinder head and receive an electrical current from the ignition system.

8. Fuel system: The fuel system includes components such as the fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, and carburetor (in older engines) that work together to deliver fuel to the engine in the right amount and at the right time.

9. Ignition system: The ignition system includes components such as the battery, ignition coil, distributor (in older engines), and spark plugs that work together to provide an electrical spark to ignite the air/fuel mixture in the cylinders.

These are just some of the major components of a gasoline engine. Other components include the cooling system, lubrication system, and emission control system, which all work together to keep the engine running smoothly and efficiently.