Gasoline Engine Facts

Gasoline engines, also known as internal combustion engines, come in a variety of sizes, but all operate using the same principle. They are commonly used in cars, motorcycles, boats and lawn mowers, but can also be used in generators to produce electricity. In 1860, Jean Joseph Etienne Lenoir created the first gas-powered internal combustion engine that went into production.

Efficiency

Gasoline engines are only 20 percent efficient, losing 80 percent of gasoline's energy as heat.

Common Configurations

Gasoline engines commonly range from 1 to 16 cylinders. The engine's power output is directly related to the number of cylinders.

Ignition

Gasoline engines use spark plugs to ignite the fuel and begin the combustion process in the engine.

Air is Essential

In addition to a spark, air is a key component of the ignition process. A dirty air filter can have a negative effect on the engine's performance.

Cooling Mechanisms

In order to prevent overheating, engines are either air or liquid-cooled. Air-cooled engines have cylinder heads with fins to help dissipate heat, while liquid-cooled engines use coolant and a radiator.