Piston Engine Flashcards
(14 cards)
What is the central working part of a reciprocating engine where the piston moves and combustion occurs?
The cylinder.
Which part opens and closes the intake and exhaust valves in an engine?
The camshaft.
What connects the piston to the crankshaft and converts linear motion into rotational motion?
The connecting rod.
What is the function of the crankshaft in a reciprocating engine?
It converts the piston’s reciprocating (up-and-down) motion into rotational (circular) motion.
What device blends air and fuel in the correct ratio before it enters the engine?
The carburetor.
What are the two main types of valves in a cylinder, and what do they do?
Intake valve: Opens to let the air-fuel mixture into the cylinder.
Exhaust valve: Opens to let burned gases exit the cylinder.
What three things are needed for combustion in an engine?
Air, spark (electricity), and fuel.
What part delivers the electric current to ignite the air-fuel mixture?
The spark plug.
What happens during the intake stroke?
Piston moves down.
Intake valve opens, exhaust valve closes.
Air-fuel mixture is drawn into the cylinder.
What happens during the compression stroke?
Piston moves up.
Both valves are closed.
The mixture is compressed and then ignited.
What happens during the power stroke?
Piston is forced down by expanding gases.
Both valves remain closed.
What happens during the exhaust stroke?
Piston moves up.
Exhaust valve opens, intake valve closes.
Burned gases are expelled.
What is the difference between a camshaft and a crankshaft?
Camshaft: Controls valve timing (opens/closes valves).
Crankshaft: Converts piston motion into rotation.
What is the purpose of engine oil?
To lubricate moving parts, reduce friction, and prevent overheating.
