The basic principle behind most engines is the conversion of energy from one form

to another. In the case of internal combustion engines, which are the most common
type of engine used in cars and trucks, chemical energy stored in fuel is converted
into mechanical energy that can be used to power the vehicle.

Here's a breakdown of the basic engine operation:

 Intake: The engine begins by drawing in air, which is mixed with fuel (gasoline or
diesel) in a precise ratio. This air-fuel mixture is then drawn into the cylinders.
Compression: Once the air-fuel mixture is inside the cylinder, the piston moves
up, compressing the mixture. This compression increases the pressure and temperature of
the mixture, making it more volatile.
Combustion: At the top of the compression stroke, a spark plug ignites the compressed air-
fuel mixture, causing it to burn rapidly. This combustion creates a hot, high-pressure gas that
expands rapidly.
Power: The expanding gas pushes the piston down, creating a force that is transferred
through a connecting rod to the crankshaft. The rotation of the crankshaft is what ultimately
powers the wheels of the vehicle.
Exhaust: After the power stroke is complete, the piston moves back up, pushing the exhaust
gases out of the cylinder through the exhaust valve. This process is repeated for each
cylinder in the engine, creating a continuous cycle of power.