What is drawn into the cylinder during the intake stroke of a gasoline engine?

During the intake stroke of a gasoline engine, a mixture of gasoline and air is drawn into the cylinder. This process is crucial for the engine’s operation, as it prepares the air-fuel mixture necessary for combustion. When the intake valve opens, the downward movement of the piston creates a vacuum that allows atmospheric air to enter the cylinder. The fuel is then injected into this incoming air stream, mixing thoroughly to achieve the right ratio for efficient combustion.

The correct answer reflects the fact that an appropriate combination of air and gasoline is required for the engine to run effectively. This mixture is then compressed by the piston during the compression stroke before being ignited by the spark plug, initiating the power stroke. Understanding this process underlines the importance of the air-fuel mixture in the overall functioning of a gasoline engine.