Here's how it works:
1. Hot coolant from the engine flows into the radiator.
2. The radiator's fins and core (made of thin metal tubes) allow heat to transfer to the air flowing through the radiator.
3. The fan pulls air through the radiator, further aiding in heat dissipation.
4. The cooled coolant then flows back to the engine, repeating the cycle.
While the radiator is the key player, other components contribute to the cooling process:
* Water pump: Circulates the coolant through the engine and radiator.
* Thermostat: Controls the flow of coolant to the radiator, ensuring the engine reaches optimal operating temperature.
* Cooling fan: Forces air through the radiator to speed up the cooling process.
Together, these components form the engine cooling system, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy and efficient engine.