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Engine fuel is mainly made up of hydrogen and carbon, mixed so that
it will burn with oxygen present, and will free its heat energy into
mechanical energy. Liquid fuels are ideal for internal combustion
engines, because they can be economically produced, have a high heat
value per pound, an ideal rate of burning, and can be easily handled
and stored. The most common engine fuels are gasoline, kerosene and
Diesel fuel oil.
Gasoline has many advantages and is used to a greater extent than any
other fuel in internal combustion engines having spark ignition. It
has a better burning rate than other fuels, and, because it vaporizes
easily, it gives quick starting in cold weather, smooth acceleration
and maximum power.
Diesel fuel oil ranks next to gasoline in quantity used. It can be
produced as cheaply as gasoline, but its use is limited to Diesel
type engines. The use of kerosene as a fuel is usually limited to
farm tractors, marine and stationary engines, all which operate at a
fairly constant speed. Its traits are such that it cannot be properly
mixed with air and controlled in variable speed engines.
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