What is the purpose of an engine in a vehicle?

An engine is a device that converts various forms of energy (such as heat or electricity) into mechanical energy. In a vehicle, the engine's primary purpose is to generate the necessary power to propel the vehicle forward or provide auxiliary power to components like the air conditioner or power steering. The engine achieves this by burning fuel and harnessing the resulting energy to drive the wheels or produce electricity. Different types of engines may utilize different fuel sources (such as gasoline, diesel, or electricity) and employ various mechanisms to transform energy, contributing to the overall performance and efficiency of a vehicle.