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The purpose of a camshaft in an internal combustion engine is to?

The purpose of a camshaft in an internal combustion engine is to control the timing of the intake and exhaust valves.

Here's how it works:

* Camshaft lobes: The camshaft has a series of lobes, which are raised sections that rotate with the engine.

* Valve lifters: These are pushed up by the cam lobes.

* Pushrods: These transfer the motion from the valve lifters to the rocker arms.

* Rocker arms: These move the intake and exhaust valves open and closed.

Timing of the valves is crucial for efficient engine operation:

* Intake valves open: Allows air (or air-fuel mixture) to enter the cylinders.

* Intake valves close: Seals the cylinder, trapping the air/fuel mixture for combustion.

* Exhaust valves open: Allows exhaust gases to escape from the cylinder.

* Exhaust valves close: Seals the cylinder, preparing for the next intake cycle.

In summary, the camshaft is responsible for ensuring that the intake and exhaust valves open and close at the precise times required for optimal combustion and engine performance.