Ottotsüklit

Ottotsüklit is a term that refers to a specific type of internal combustion engine, commonly known in English as an Otto cycle engine. This thermodynamic cycle, named after Nikolaus Otto, describes the functioning of a spark-ignition reciprocating piston engine. The Otto cycle consists of four distinct phases: intake, compression, power, and exhaust. During the intake stroke, a mixture of fuel and air enters the cylinder. This mixture is then compressed in the compression stroke. Following compression, a spark ignites the mixture, causing an explosion that drives the piston down during the power stroke. Finally, the exhaust stroke expels the burnt gases from the cylinder. This four-stroke process is the basis for most gasoline engines found in automobiles and many other applications. The efficiency of the Otto cycle is theoretical and depends on factors such as the compression ratio and the working fluid. In practice, real-world engines deviate slightly from the ideal Otto cycle due to factors like heat loss and friction. The concept of the Otto cycle is fundamental to understanding how gasoline-powered vehicles operate.