Run a 3D ideal-gas cylinder and flywheel through the four reversible strokes of a Carnot cycle while a real-time marker traces the Pressure-Volume (P-V) loop. Adjust hot and cold reservoir temperatures to test the thermodynamic efficiency limit.
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Four-Stroke Engine
About this simulation
This simulation opens up a single cylinder of a petrol engine so students can follow the piston through intake, compression, power and exhaust. Sliders set the engine speed, which is slowed so the motion is easy to watch, and the spark advance in degrees before top dead centre. Readouts show the current stroke, the angle in the 720 degree cycle, the cylinder pressure and which valves are open. It is a clear way to teach why the crankshaft turns twice for each power stroke and what the valves and spark are for.
What students can explore
- Watch one full cycle and name each stroke from the Stroke readout.
- Check the Cycle angle readout to see that a complete cycle takes 720 degrees.
- Change Spark advance and watch how Cylinder pressure peaks at a different moment.
- Slow Engine speed right down to see exactly when the Valves open and close.
- Switch Cutaway block off and on to compare the outside and inside views.
Learning objectives
- 1Name and order the four strokes of a petrol engine.
- 2Explain why the crankshaft turns twice for each power stroke.
- 3Describe the job of the intake valve, exhaust valve and spark.
- 4Relate piston position to rising and falling cylinder pressure.
Questions teachers ask
Is it free to use?
Yes. It is free and works in any modern browser, including whiteboards and tablets, with no sign-up or download.
Why is it called a four-stroke engine?
The piston makes four strokes to complete one cycle: intake, compression, power and exhaust. That takes two full turns of the crankshaft, or 720 degrees, and only one of the four strokes produces power.
How do I use the engine simulation?
Drag Engine speed to run the cycle faster or slower and Spark advance to move the spark timing. Read the Stroke, Cycle angle, Cylinder pressure and Valves boxes, and toggle Cutaway block to see inside.
What does the spark do?
The spark ignites the compressed fuel and air mixture. The burning gas expands and pushes the piston down, which is the power stroke. Igniting slightly before top dead centre lets the pressure peak at a useful moment.
Embed this simulation
Drop it into your LMS, blog, or class site — free.
<iframe src="https://kiwibee.io/en/simulations/four-stroke-engine-3d-simulation/embed" title="Four-Stroke Engine | KiwiBee" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen style="width:100%;height:min(70vh,620px);min-height:420px;border:0;border-radius:16px"></iframe>Continue exploring
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