Internal Combustion Engine

engines · energy · machines · how-it-works

Fuel combusts inside. The engine burns fuel mixed with air inside a special chamber, creating super hot and pressurized gases that expand rapidly.

Gases push parts. Those expanding gases push pistons, blades, or rotors, forcing them to move back and forth or spin around.

Motion from heat. The engine transforms chemical energy from the fuel into kinetic energy, which is movement that powers cars, boats, planes, and generators.

Continuous cycle. The engine repeats this process hundreds or thousands of times per minute to keep producing power and motion.

Powers our world. Internal combustion engines are in most cars, trucks, motorcycles, and airplanes, making them one of humanity's most important inventions.