1. Ignition Key/Start Button:
* You turn the key to the "start" position or press the start button. This activates the starter motor.
2. Starter Motor:
* The starter motor is an electric motor connected to the engine's crankshaft via a gear mechanism.
* It spins the crankshaft, which in turn rotates the pistons inside the cylinders.
3. Fuel and Air Mixture:
* Simultaneously, the fuel injection system injects fuel into the cylinders.
* At the same time, the intake valves open, allowing air to flow into the cylinders.
* This creates a mixture of air and fuel within the cylinders.
4. Spark Plugs:
* The ignition system (usually a coil and spark plugs) generates a high-voltage spark.
* The spark ignites the air-fuel mixture inside the cylinders, creating an explosion.
5. Combustion and Power Stroke:
* The explosion expands rapidly, pushing the piston down. This is the power stroke, where the engine's energy is created.
* The crankshaft is connected to the pistons and converts the linear motion of the pistons into rotational motion.
6. Exhaust and Repeat:
* After the power stroke, the exhaust valves open, allowing the burnt gases to be expelled out of the cylinder.
* The intake valves then open again, and the cycle repeats (intake, compression, combustion, exhaust).
7. Engine Running:
* This cycle continues rapidly (typically hundreds of times per minute), creating the engine's power.
Key Components:
* Starter Motor: Provides the initial spin to start the engine.
* Crankshaft: Transmits the power from the pistons to the wheels.
* Piston: Moves up and down in the cylinder, compressing and igniting the air-fuel mixture.
* Cylinder: The space where combustion takes place.
* Intake Valves: Allow air to enter the cylinders.
* Exhaust Valves: Allow exhaust gases to exit the cylinders.
* Fuel Injection System: Delivers fuel to the cylinders.
* Ignition System: Generates sparks to ignite the air-fuel mixture.
Note: This is a simplified explanation. Modern engines have complex systems that optimize fuel efficiency, reduce emissions, and control engine operation.
