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fourthindiana
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What makes the spark plugs in an automobile engine or any other type of gasoline engine spark?
fourthindiana said:What makes the spark plugs in an automobile engine or any other type of gasoline engine spark?
phyzguy said:The coil generates a large voltage (over 10,000 volts), which is applied across the spark plug gap. This voltage exceeds the breakdown voltage of the air in the gap, so the air breaks down. The breakdown separates some of the neutral gas atoms in the air in the gap into electrons and ions. A large current is carried by the electrons and ions in the gap, which is what you see (and hear) as the spark.
fourthindiana said:What does "the air breaks down" mean? Do you mean that the molecules in the air such as nitrogen and oxygen split up into individual atoms?
A spark plug is a crucial component of an internal combustion engine. Its main purpose is to ignite the air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber, which ultimately powers the engine and allows the vehicle to run.
A spark plug creates a spark by using an electrical current to bridge the gap between its center electrode and ground electrode. This high voltage current is generated by the ignition system and is strong enough to ignite the air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber.
Most spark plugs are made of a ceramic insulator, a metal shell, and a center electrode made of copper, platinum, or iridium. The choice of material for the center electrode depends on the specific needs of the engine and its performance requirements.
The lifespan of a spark plug varies depending on the type of vehicle and driving conditions. Generally, spark plugs should be replaced every 30,000 to 100,000 miles. It is important to follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule to ensure optimal engine performance.
A faulty spark plug can cause a variety of issues, including difficulty starting the engine, poor fuel economy, and rough idling. Other signs of a faulty spark plug may include misfiring, engine hesitation, and a lack of power while accelerating. If you notice any of these symptoms, it may be time to replace your spark plugs.