* Fuel Combustion: The car's engine burns fuel (like gasoline or diesel) in a controlled explosion. This combustion releases energy in the form of heat.
* Piston Movement: The heat from combustion expands gases in the engine's cylinders, pushing pistons up and down.
* Crankshaft Rotation: The pistons are connected to a crankshaft, which converts the linear motion of the pistons into rotational motion.
* Transmission and Drive Shaft: The crankshaft's rotation is transmitted through a gearbox (transmission) and then to the drive shaft.
* Wheels: The drive shaft rotates the wheels, causing them to turn and propel the car forward.
Key Concepts:
* Internal Combustion Engine (ICE): Most cars use ICEs to convert fuel into mechanical energy.
* Torque: This is the twisting force produced by the engine.
* Horsepower: This measures the engine's power output.
* Transmission: This system helps the car move at different speeds and allows the driver to change gears.
Other ways cars can move:
* Electric Vehicles: Electric motors use electricity to power the wheels, eliminating the need for combustion.
* Hybrid Vehicles: Combine an ICE with an electric motor for improved efficiency.
