What drives the pistons in an internal combustion engine?

The pistons in an internal combustion engine are driven by pressure from combustion. In this type of engine, a mixture of fuel and air is ignited in the combustion chamber, leading to an explosive reaction that generates a significant amount of gas. This rapid expansion of gases creates high pressure within the cylinder, which pushes the piston down.

As the piston moves, it turns the crankshaft, ultimately powering the vehicle. The cycle of intake, compression, combustion, and exhaust is what allows the engine to convert the chemical energy stored in fuel into mechanical energy that can drive a vehicle. This process is fundamental to how internal combustion engines operate, distinguishing them from other types of engines such as electric or pneumatic ones.