1. Combustion: In most cars (internal combustion engine vehicles), gasoline (or diesel) is mixed with air and ignited in the engine's cylinders. This combustion reaction releases a large amount of heat and pressure.
2. Mechanical Energy Conversion: This rapid expansion of hot gases pushes pistons within the cylinders. The pistons' linear motion is converted into rotary motion by the crankshaft.
3. Power Transmission: The crankshaft's rotation is transferred through a transmission system (gearbox) to the wheels. The transmission alters the rotational speed and torque to suit different driving conditions (e.g., accelerating, cruising, climbing a hill).
4. Wheels and Tires: The rotating wheels, powered by the engine via the transmission, grip the road surface and propel the car forward.
5. Electrical System: A battery and alternator provide electricity to power various components like the engine's ignition system, lights, and other accessories. In electric cars, the battery powers an electric motor directly.
In short, the chemical energy stored in fuel (or battery) is transformed into heat and pressure through combustion (or electrochemical reactions in electric vehicles), which is then converted into mechanical energy to turn the wheels and move the car.
