Which of the following is one of the most common combustion cycles?

The Otto cycle is one of the most common combustion cycles, particularly in the context of internal combustion engines, such as those used in most gasoline-powered vehicles. This cycle operates on the principle of compressing a fuel-air mixture and then igniting it, which results in a power stroke that drives the engine.

The key characteristic of the Otto cycle is that it involves two main processes: adiabatic compression and isochoric (constant volume) combustion. During the compression phase, the fuel-air mixture is compressed within the cylinder, which raises its temperature and pressure. Once the piston reaches the top of its stroke, the mixture is ignited by a spark plug, leading to combustion that expands the gases rapidly. This is followed by the power stroke, which is responsible for generating mechanical work.

The significance of the Otto cycle lies in its efficiency and widespread use in automotive applications, making it a foundational concept in thermodynamics and engine design. Understanding how the Otto cycle works provides insight into the performance characteristics of gasoline engines, including aspects like fuel efficiency and power output.