Gasoline Engine Combustion: Shock-Wave or Expansion?

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In gasoline engines, combustion occurs through a rapid expansion of heated air and fuel rather than a shock wave. The heat generated from combustion causes the compressed air to expand, which in turn pushes the piston down. This process is essential for converting fuel energy into mechanical work. The absence of a shock wave distinguishes gasoline engine combustion from detonation phenomena found in other types of engines. Understanding this mechanism is crucial for grasping how gasoline engines operate efficiently.
alex1995x
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Hi all,

I was wondering if someone could please clarify the following for me. I read that in a gasoline engine there is no shock-wave in the detonation of gasoline. If there is no shock-wave, then how is the piston pushed down? Thanks in advance for the help

Alex
 
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I assume the combustion of fuel heats the compressed air, causing it to expand and push the piston down. That sound right?
 

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