1. Combustion: When you turn the ignition key, an electric current flows to the spark plugs. The spark plugs generate an electrical spark that ignites a mixture of air and gasoline (the fuel) inside the engine's cylinders. This combustion reaction releases a significant amount of heat and gaseous products.
2. Heat to Mechanical Energy Conversion: The intense heat generated by combustion causes the gases in the cylinders to expand rapidly. This expanding gas exerts pressure on the cylinder walls and the pistons, pushing the pistons down. The reciprocating motion of the pistons is converted into rotary motion by the crankshaft, which is connected to the wheels.
3. Electrical Energy to Mechanical Energy Conversion: The starting of the engine also relies on the electrical system. The starter motor, powered by the car battery, draws electrical energy and uses it to turn the flywheel connected to the crankshaft. This initial rotation helps overcome the inertia of the engine components and gets them moving.
4. Fuel Injection and Air Supply: The fuel injection system and the air intake system work together to provide the necessary fuel and air mixture for combustion. Fuel injectors precisely spray the required amount of gasoline into the cylinders, while the air intake system draws in air from outside the car.
5. Exhaust System: As a byproduct of combustion, exhaust gases are generated. The exhaust system collects these gases and redirects them away from the engine and out of the vehicle.
Overall, the process of starting a car involves the transformation of chemical energy (gasoline) into heat energy (combustion) and then into mechanical energy (piston movement and crankshaft rotation). The electrical system plays a crucial role in initiating these processes and providing the necessary power.
