CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION AND HOW CARS WORK

1. What is the difference between a manufacturer and make?

An automotive manufacturer (example GM) is a company that produces vehicles. Automotive manufacturers identify the various vehicles they produce by their "make" (example Cadillac).

1. Who was credited with the world's first motorcar?

Carl Benz was credited with building the world's first motorcar.

1. What was the earliest self-powered road vehicle?

Cugnot steam traction engine in 1769-1770 was the earliest self-powered road vehicle.

1. What is an engine configuration? List several examples.

Engine configuration is the design of the engine block. Common engine configurations include inline, opposed, or V.

What two units of measurement are used to classify engine sizes?

Engine size is commonly listed in liters or cubic inches.

1. What is the difference between force, work, power, and energy?

Force is a push or pull interaction between objects. When an object has moved from a force, the position of the object has changed and work has occurred. Power is the rate at which work is done. Energy is the "fuel" stored or used to perform work.

1. What types of careers exist in the automotive industry?

Many automotive careers exist. These include, but are not limited to, automotive manufacturing, service and repair, and careers that support the industry.

1. What are the systems of the automobile?

Parts that work together to perform a specific task make up a system. Automotive systems include: electrical; lubrication; fuel; cooling and climate control; ignition; suspension, steering, and tires; braking; drivetrain; and exhaust and emission.

1. What are the strokes in a four-stroke internal combustion engine? What is the difference between a gasoline and diesel engine?

The four strokes are Intake, Compression, Power (Combustion), and Exhaust. Gasoline powered engines use spark plugs to ignite the air-fuel mixture in the engine. Diesel engines do not have spark plugs. Diesel engines are compression ignition engines.

1. What does the acronym VIN represent?

VIN stands for Vehicle Identification Number.