Here's why:
* Boiling Point: Coolant has a much higher boiling point than water. This means it can absorb more heat before it starts to boil, preventing the engine from overheating.
* Freezing Point: Coolant also has a lower freezing point than water, meaning it can withstand colder temperatures without freezing.
* Corrosion Protection: Coolant contains additives that prevent corrosion and rust in the engine's cooling system. Water, on its own, can lead to corrosion.
* Heat Transfer: Coolant is designed to transfer heat more efficiently than water. It has a higher thermal conductivity, allowing it to absorb and dissipate heat more quickly.
* Lubrication: Coolant also acts as a lubricant, protecting the water pump and other components in the cooling system.
Water, while a good conductor of heat, is not an effective coolant for engines due to its:
* Low boiling point: Water boils at 212°F (100°C), which is not high enough to handle the high temperatures generated by an engine.
* Freezing point: Water freezes at 32°F (0°C), which can damage the engine in cold climates.
* Corrosive nature: Water can cause rust and corrosion in the engine's cooling system.
In summary, coolant is a specialized fluid designed for engine cooling that provides better protection against overheating, freezing, corrosion, and lubrication compared to plain water.
