EeebeeE
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- Aug 7, 2011
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Let's have some fun and debate semantics.
I believe it is an "engine." An engine requires heat to provide movement. A motor does not. An electric motor is propelled by electricity and magnetism. Heat is a byproduct, not a force used to propel. On the other hand, a car engine is propelled by heat causing an expansion in a cylinder that moves a piston. A steam engine and stirling engine are external combustion engines, both requiring heat to expand air or steam. A rocket engine requires heat to burn a fuel which causes increased pressure underneath the rocket propelling it forward. The rocket itself is the piston being moved upward.
What do you think?
I believe it is an "engine." An engine requires heat to provide movement. A motor does not. An electric motor is propelled by electricity and magnetism. Heat is a byproduct, not a force used to propel. On the other hand, a car engine is propelled by heat causing an expansion in a cylinder that moves a piston. A steam engine and stirling engine are external combustion engines, both requiring heat to expand air or steam. A rocket engine requires heat to burn a fuel which causes increased pressure underneath the rocket propelling it forward. The rocket itself is the piston being moved upward.
What do you think?