Diesel vs Gas Essay Example
Diesel vs Gas Essay Example

Diesel vs Gas Essay Example

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  • Pages: 2 (518 words)
  • Published: January 7, 2017
  • Type: Case Study
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When considering a new truck, you may be uncertain about choosing between a gasoline or diesel engine. Although gas and diesel engines have similarities, there are also important distinctions. While they may appear alike, it would be a mistake to judge solely based on exterior appearance. Gas engines are commonly used in personal vehicles while diesel engines are prevalent in commercial and industrial sectors.

The navy and army prefer using diesel engines in their ships, tanks, and big trucks because of their reliability, durability, and higher power output. Diesel engines are specifically engineered to endure heavy workloads and have a longer lifespan, making them more cost-effective. However, from an environmental standpoint, diesel engines emit more CO2 than gasoline engines do. Nevertheless, modern diesel filters can reduce the release of part

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iculate matter.

In order to compensate for the increased CO2 emissions from a diesel engine compared to a gasoline engine, one would need fuel savings of over 15%. The primary distinction between the two lies in their ignition process. Gasoline engines rely on spark plugs to ignite the fuel, while diesel engines use compression. Gasoline engines intake a mixture of gas and air, compress it, and ignite it with a spark from the spark plug. Conversely, diesel engines only take in air, compress it, and subsequently inject fuel into the compressed air. The heat generated by the compressed air then triggers ignition.

Both modern gas and diesel engines use Electronic Fuel Injection to introduce fuel into the cylinders. These engines operate based on internal combustion principles, with fuel explosions occurring in the cylinders at intervals to exert force on the piston and initiate

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downward movement. This movement, along with the connecting rod, starts the rotation of the crankshaft. The continuous rotation of the crankshaft lifts the piston for the next cycle, converting its reciprocating motion into circular motion and ultimately propelling the vehicle. Gas engines generally have similar levels of horsepower and torque.

The diesel engine typically has double the torque compared to its horsepower, making it superior for climbing hills and carrying heavy loads. One noticeable difference is that diesel engines struggle more to start in cold weather, unlike gas engines which have an electrical starting system. While gas engines rely on fuel, air, and spark for ignition, diesel engines rely on heat and compression to initiate spontaneous combustion. Another evident distinction lies in the fuel prices.

As of March 2011, diesel prices have become significantly higher than gas prices, with gas costing around $3.40 to $3.50 per gallon (depending on location) and diesel nearing $4.00 per gallon while also rising rapidly. It is worth noting that about 7 or 8 years ago, diesel was actually cheaper than gas, which was priced slightly above $1.00 per gallon. In my opinion, the overall superiority of the diesel engine compared to the gas engine should be highlighted; however, this may vary depending on vehicle usage and price considerations. The diesel engine is renowned for its durability, reliability, longevity, power, efficiency, and lower maintenance requirements when compared to a gas engine. I take great pride in driving a diesel vehicle and intend to continue doing so for many years.

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