The Thermodynamics (and Math) of Compression Ignition
A transparent piston-cylinder lets you to SEE compression ignition as it happens! Nearly adiabatic compression of air causes the auto-ignition of a piece of paper. The video includes a mathematical analysis of the thermodynamics of "isentropic compression" of an ideal gas. This is the process that auto-ignites the fuel diesel engines without the use of a spark plug. Also used in "fire pistons", a device for starting campfires in a wilderness setting.
Chapters
0:00 Intro and demonstration
01:15 Physical explanation & discussion of diesel engines
02:34 The thermodynamic analysis (isentropic compression)
03:49 Temperature and pressure calculations
06:22 Out-take!
06:44 Discussion of the Pasco apparatus
This demonstration was done with a professional grade "compression igniter" by PASCO:
https://www.pasco.com/products/lab-ap...
#dieselengine #thermodynamics #adiabaticprocess