The internal combustion engine

An internal combustion engine is a device that powers vehicles by burning fuel—usually gasoline or diesel—inside its cylinders. This combustion creates controlled explosions that produce hot gases, which push pistons to move up and down. These piston movements are converted into rotary motion through a crankshaft, ultimately turning the vehicle’s wheels. The engine continuously repeats this process, providing a reliable power source for transportation. Essentially, it transforms chemical energy from fuel into mechanical energy, enabling the vehicle to move efficiently and smoothly.