Question 1

Transmission design — advantages of helical gears Compared with spur gears used in gearboxes, helical gears offer which two key advantages that justify their widespread use in automotive transmissions?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Gear selection in transmissions balances noise, strength, efficiency, and manufacturability. Helical gears dominate modern automotive gearboxes due to their meshing characteristics and load capacity. Given Data / Assumptions: Comparison between spur and helical gear sets under similar module and face width. Automotive use where noise and smoothness are critical. Proper bearings are provided to react axial (end) thrust. Concept / Approach: Helical gears have angled teeth causing gradual engagement across the tooth face. This increases the contact ratio and distributes load over multiple teeth, improving strength and smoothness while reducing noise and vibration. The trade-off is axial thrust that must be supported by bearings and slightly higher sliding losses. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify attributes: helical → higher contact ratio → greater load capacity.Gradual tooth engagement → quieter operation than spur gears.Therefore, the principal benefits are reduced noise and increased strength. Verification / Alternative check: NVH measurements confirm lower tonal noise with helical gears; gearbox design books cite higher permissible torque for the same size. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Helical gears create more end thrust, not less; so (b) is incorrect. Cost is typically higher than spur due to complex manufacture; so (a) and (d) are not primary advantages. Option (e) is wrong because helical gears have axial thrust and not necessarily lower friction. Common Pitfalls: Ignoring axial load in bearing selection; excessive helix angle increases sliding losses and thrust beyond desired limits. Final Answer: noise level and strength

Question 2

Piston anatomy — identifying top-surface features The crescent-shaped cavity provided on the piston crown (top surface) to prevent interference with valve heads and to improve combustion chamber shape is known as:

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Modern engines use shaped piston crowns to tailor compression ratio, swirl/tumble, and to ensure safe clearance with opening valves. Recognizing piston features is useful in rebuilds and performance tuning. Given Data / Assumptions: The feature is a shallow, crescent-shaped depression on the piston crown. It corresponds to the path/footprint of intake or exhaust valve heads. Engine employs overhead valves where pistons may approach valves closely. Concept / Approach: Valve recesses (also called valve pockets or cutouts) are machined or cast into the piston crown to avoid contact during valve overlap or high-lift cam operation and to help shape the combustion chamber. They differ from general valve clearance (a design dimension), from snap rings (retainers for wrist pins), and from oil holes or ring lands. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify geometry: crescent-shaped cavity aligned with valve head arc.Function: provide mechanical clearance and affect chamber flow.Term used in engine design: valve recess/valve pocket. Verification / Alternative check: Engine build manuals label these features as valve reliefs or recesses, often specifying minimum piston-to-valve clearances at TDC overlap. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Piston oil holes refer to lubrication passages, not crown cavities. Snap rings retain the gudgeon pin and are located at pin bores, not on the crown. 'Valve clearance' is a general dimension, not the name of the cavity. Ring lands are the regions between ring grooves. Common Pitfalls: Insufficient valve recess depth with high-lift cams can cause mechanical interference; excessive recess volume raises crevice volume and can affect emissions and knock margin. Final Answer: valve recess

Question 3

Fuel rating for compression-ignition (C.I.) engines In diesel (C.I.) engines, the standard scale used to express the ignition quality of the fuel is called:

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Engine fuels are graded on different scales depending on the combustion principle. Spark-ignition (petrol) engines rely on a controlled flame initiated by a spark, whereas compression-ignition (diesel) engines rely on self-ignition due to high temperature reached by compressing air. This question tests whether you can identify the correct rating scale for diesel fuel quality. Given Data / Assumptions: C.I. engines depend on auto-ignition delay characteristics of the fuel. Rating scales differ between S.I. and C.I. engines. Common rating terms include octane number, cetane number, and performance number. Concept / Approach: For diesel fuel, ignition quality is measured by cetane number. A higher cetane number indicates shorter ignition delay and smoother pressure rise, aiding quieter operation, easier cold starting, and reduced white smoke. Octane number, by contrast, measures resistance to knock in petrol engines. Performance number is a related term used historically for high-octane aviation fuels, not for diesel. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the engine type: compression-ignition (diesel).Recognize the key desired property: prompt auto-ignition (short ignition delay).Recall the rating that quantifies this in diesel fuels: cetane number.Select the option explicitly stating cetane number. Verification / Alternative check: Diesel fuel specifications from standards (e.g., EN 590, ASTM D975) list minimum cetane numbers to ensure satisfactory ignition delay and emissions performance, confirming the correct property and scale name. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Octane number applies to spark-ignition anti-knock quality, not diesel. Performance number relates to very high octane petrol ratings. 'None of these' is incorrect because a correct named scale exists. Common Pitfalls: Confusing knock in petrol with diesel knock; assuming both engines share the same rating term; overlooking that higher cetane is desirable, whereas higher octane means greater knock resistance in petrol. Final Answer: cetane number

Question 4

Engine kinematics — definition of stroke In reciprocating I.C. engines, the stroke is defined as the:

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Basic engine geometry terms like bore, stroke, and clearance volume are fundamental to understanding displacement, compression ratio, and performance. This item asks for the correct definition of stroke in a reciprocating internal combustion engine. Given Data / Assumptions: T.D.C. means top dead centre of the piston. B.D.C. means bottom dead centre of the piston. The piston moves linearly between these extremes within the cylinder. Concept / Approach: Stroke length is the linear distance the piston travels from T.D.C. to B.D.C. It is one of the two primary dimensions (the other is bore, the internal diameter) that define cylinder swept volume. Neither connecting rod length nor cylinder volume is the correct definition for stroke. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the endpoints of piston motion: T.D.C. and B.D.C.Define stroke as the linear displacement between these positions.Select the option that states 'distance between T.D.C. and B.D.C.' Verification / Alternative check: Swept volume can be calculated as V_swept = (pi / 4) * bore^2 * stroke. This relationship shows stroke is a length, not a volume or a diameter. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 'Volume of the cylinder' is not a length. 'Length of the connecting rod' is a separate kinematic parameter. 'Internal diameter of the cylinder' is the bore, not the stroke. Common Pitfalls: Confusing bore and stroke; thinking cylinder volume equals swept volume (it also includes clearance); forgetting that T.D.C. and B.D.C. are positions along the same axis of travel. Final Answer: distance between T.D.C. and B.D.C.

Question 5

Engine design — benefit of cylinder sleeves (liners) Which performance characteristic is primarily enhanced by using cylinder sleeves in an engine block?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Cylinder sleeves (liners) are replaceable wear surfaces installed in an engine block. They are widely used in heavy-duty engines and rebuildable designs to restore bore condition without replacing the entire block. Given Data / Assumptions: Sleeves are made from wear-resistant cast iron or alloyed materials. They provide a precisely finished running surface for the piston rings. Lubrication and cooling systems function independently of sleeve presence. Concept / Approach: The key advantage of sleeves is improved wear resistance and maintainability. The sleeve material, surface finish, and hardness are optimized for ring sliding contact, reducing bore wear and allowing economical replacement. While sleeves can influence heat transfer slightly, their principal purpose is not to increase coolant effectiveness or oiling directly but to present a durable wear surface. Step-by-Step Solution: Recognize problem domain: piston–ring–liner tribology.Connect sleeve function to wear mitigation and rebuildability.Select 'resistance to wear' as the primary improved characteristic. Verification / Alternative check: Engine overhaul manuals emphasize that worn liners are replaced or honed to restore crosshatch and diameter, proving that sleeves address wear first and foremost. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Cooling efficiency is governed more by water jacket design and flow rates; lubrication performance depends on oil supply and ring design; 'none of these' is wrong because sleeves demonstrably improve wear resistance. Common Pitfalls: Assuming sleeves guarantee better cooling; overlooking proper honing and plateau finishing; using incompatible ring materials leading to scuffing despite sleeves. Final Answer: resistance to wear

Question 6

Ignition system — spark plug voltage level in petrol (S.I.) engines The typical high voltage required at the spark plug during normal operation is of the order of:

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: In spark-ignition engines, the ignition coil boosts battery voltage to a much higher level so that a spark can jump the plug gap under cylinder pressure. Understanding the order of magnitude helps diagnose ignition faults and select components. Given Data / Assumptions: Battery provides around 12 volts nominal. Coil step-up plus switching (breaker or electronic) generates several thousand volts. Required voltage depends on plug gap, mixture, pressure, and temperature. Concept / Approach: Typical required voltage during running is often between 10 kV and 20 kV, with spikes higher during cold starts or lean conditions. Values like 1 kV or 2 kV are far too low to consistently ionize the gap under compression, whereas 11 kV lies squarely within the common operational range for many engines and is an appropriate 'order of' estimate. Step-by-Step Solution: Recognize that the spark must bridge roughly 0.6 to 1.0 mm gap under high cylinder pressure.Recall typical coil output and plug firing voltage: about 10 kV to 20 kV.Select a value within this band as the order-of-magnitude: 11 kV. Verification / Alternative check: Oscilloscope patterns of secondary ignition commonly show firing voltages around 10 kV with higher peaks during acceleration or cold conditions, validating the selection. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 1 kV and 2 kV are insufficient under compression; 22 kV can occur but is on the higher side and not the typical order-of-magnitude for normal warmed-up running. Common Pitfalls: Confusing coil maximum capability with typical firing voltage; ignoring that required voltage increases with plug wear, lean mixtures, or boosted engines. Final Answer: 11 kilovolts

Question 7

Tyre construction — understanding bias ply tyres In a bias ply (cross-ply) tyre, the cord plies are arranged so that:

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Tyre performance depends strongly on carcass construction. Bias ply and radial ply designs differ in cord orientation, affecting stiffness, heat buildup, handling, and durability. Given Data / Assumptions: Bias ply is also called cross-ply. Cord plies are typically nylon, rayon, or polyester in automotive applications. Steel belts are associated primarily with radial tyres. Concept / Approach: In bias ply tyres, cords in successive plies cross each other at an angle (often 30 to 40 degrees) to the circumferential direction. This criss-cross arrangement gives a stiffer sidewall and tread coupling, but generates higher heat at high speeds compared to radials. Radials have cords at roughly 90 degrees to the circumference and use steel belts under the tread for stiffness. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify tyre type: bias (cross-ply).Recall standard construction: alternating diagonal plies crossing each other.Choose the option that states 'one ply diagonally one way and another diagonally the other way'. Verification / Alternative check: Tyre manufacturer cutaway diagrams show the characteristic crossed ply angle of bias tyres and steel-belted radial structure as distinct alternatives. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Parallel plies describe neither bias nor radial tyres. Steel belts are typical of radials, not bias tyres. 'All of the above' cannot be correct because the statements conflict. Common Pitfalls: Confusing steel-belted radial features with bias ply; assuming cord angle is the same for all tyres; overlooking the impact on ride comfort and heat generation. Final Answer: one ply layer runs diagonally one way and another layer runs diagonally the other way

Question 8

Automotive safety — function of ABS (Antilock Brake System) Which statement best describes the primary function of ABS during braking?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: ABS is a cornerstone of modern automotive safety systems. It modulates brake pressure to prevent wheel lockup, thereby improving vehicle control during emergency braking and on slippery surfaces. Given Data / Assumptions: ABS operates via wheel-speed sensors, control unit, and hydraulic modulators. The aim is to keep wheel slip in an optimal range for traction. Stopping distance benefits depend on surface; control is the guaranteed benefit. Concept / Approach: When a wheel tends to lock, ABS reduces brake pressure momentarily, then reapplies it to maintain rotation. This preserves lateral (cornering) force capability so the driver can steer while braking hard. On loose gravel or fresh snow, ABS may not reduce stopping distance, but it still preserves steering control. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the design objective: prevent lock to maintain steerability.Note that while stopping distance may improve on wet or dry tarmac, it is not guaranteed on all surfaces.Select the option highlighting directional control via preventing wheel lock. Verification / Alternative check: Safety testing consistently shows vehicles with ABS remain steerable in panic stops; legislation often mandates ABS as a control aid, not solely a distance reducer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Stopping distance reduction is conditional; brake fade minimization relates to thermal properties, not ABS logic; nose dive depends on suspension and load transfer, not directly on ABS function. Common Pitfalls: Assuming ABS always shortens stopping distance; pumping the brake pedal (ABS already modulates); ignoring tyre condition and road surface effects. Final Answer: maintains directional control during braking by preventing the wheels from locking

Question 9

Seat belt retractor behavior — inertial locking mechanism Evaluate the statement: The seat belt will move out smoothly when pulled slowly, but it will lock when pulled quickly.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Modern vehicles use inertia-reel (ELR) seat belt retractors that allow comfort during normal movements yet lock the belt during rapid deceleration or abrupt pulling. This question checks understanding of that safety mechanism. Given Data / Assumptions: The retractor contains a spool, a spring, and an inertial locking device (ball or pendulum) or web-sensing mechanism. Normal slow extension should be smooth. Rapid pull simulates crash-like acceleration or sudden occupant motion. Concept / Approach: Inertia-sensing mechanisms engage a pawl with the ratchet on the spool when a threshold acceleration or web acceleration is detected, halting belt payout. This prevents excessive occupant excursion while permitting everyday comfort and minor movements when pulled gently. Step-by-Step Solution: Consider slow pull: inertial device not triggered; belt feeds smoothly.Consider fast pull or vehicle deceleration: inertial sensor engages; spool locks.Therefore, the given statement accurately reflects ELR function. Verification / Alternative check: User manuals describe the belt locking if pulled out rapidly or if the vehicle decelerates/tilts suddenly, confirming the statement. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 'Disagree' would contradict well-known ELR behavior designed to meet safety regulations. Common Pitfalls: Testing on a slope can lock the belt unexpectedly due to angle-sensitive mechanisms; worn retractors may stick, but the design intent is as stated. Final Answer: Agree

Question 10

Lead-acid battery state of charge — specific gravity at 50% charge When a typical automotive lead-acid battery is about 50% charged, the electrolyte specific gravity at 27°C is approximately:

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Hydrometers are used to estimate the state of charge of flooded lead-acid batteries by measuring electrolyte specific gravity. Understanding typical values helps diagnose charging systems and battery health. Given Data / Assumptions: Reference temperature near 27°C (or appropriate correction applied). Fully charged battery electrolyte around 1.26 to 1.28. Fully discharged battery electrolyte around 1.12. Concept / Approach: Specific gravity correlates with sulfuric acid concentration. As the battery discharges, sulfuric acid is consumed and water content increases, lowering specific gravity. Mid-charge (about 50%) falls between the extremes, close to 1.19 to 1.20 for automotive cells at standard temperature. Step-by-Step Solution: Recall typical SG values: full ≈ 1.26 to 1.28; empty ≈ 1.12.Estimate midpoint by trend and empirical charts: ≈ 1.19–1.20.Select the nearest provided option: 1.19. Verification / Alternative check: Battery manufacturer charts list SG versus state of charge; corrections of about 0.0007 per °C from 27°C may apply, but the nominal midpoint remains about 1.19. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 0.74 is unrealistic for aqueous electrolytes; 1.00 corresponds roughly to pure water; 1.12 indicates near full discharge. Common Pitfalls: Ignoring temperature correction; mixing sealed maintenance-free indicators with hydrometer readings; assuming all chemistries share identical values (AGM/gel may vary slightly). Final Answer: 1.19

Question 11

Engine sealing — function of the cylinder head gasket What is the primary purpose of a cylinder head gasket in an internal combustion engine?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The cylinder head gasket is a critical sealing component between the engine block and the cylinder head. It must seal combustion pressure, coolant passages, and oil galleries simultaneously under thermal and mechanical loads. Given Data / Assumptions: Composite, MLS (multi-layer steel), or copper gasket types are used. Sealing rings/fire rings are placed around cylinder bores. Coolant and oil passages also traverse the joint. Concept / Approach: While the gasket also seals fluids, its most demanding function is containing high-pressure combustion gases to prevent blow-by at the head–block interface. Failure leads to loss of compression, misfire, and cross-leakage into coolant or oil. Other seals and components control oil separately; filtration of impurities is unrelated to the gasket. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the highest-stress seal: combustion chamber periphery.Relate to function: prevent combustion gases from escaping at the joint.Choose the option detailing this primary purpose. Verification / Alternative check: Symptoms of head gasket failure (combustion gases in coolant, low compression, oil–coolant mixing) confirm its sealing roles; service procedures emphasize correct torque/angle tightening to maintain clamp load. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Stopping oil entry to the chamber is primarily ring/valve seal work; removing impurities is the oil filter’s job; 'none of the above' is incorrect since a clear primary role exists. Common Pitfalls: Reusing torque-to-yield head bolts; ignoring surface flatness; improper sequence or lubrication during torque causing leaks. Final Answer: prevent the combustion gases from leaking from the joint between the cylinder block and the cylinder head

Question 12

Electronically controlled automatic transmissions — main objective The major purpose of using electronic control in an automatic transmission is to:

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Modern automatic transmissions employ electronic control units, sensors, and solenoid valves to regulate gear changes. The objective is to optimize shift quality, performance, and fuel economy while protecting components. Given Data / Assumptions: Inputs include throttle position, engine speed, vehicle speed, load, temperature, and driver mode. Outputs actuate shift solenoids, pressure control solenoids, and lock-up clutches. Hydraulic circuits still perform mechanical work, guided by electronic commands. Concept / Approach: Electronic control coordinates shift timing and line pressure to minimize shift shock (jolt) and slip losses, improving torque transfer efficiency and drivability. It does not eliminate clutches or necessarily reduce component count; rather, it manages existing hardware more precisely and may add components (sensors/ECU) to enhance control. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the driver-perceived benefit: smooth, well-timed shifts.Identify the efficiency benefit: appropriate pressure and lock-up control reduce slip losses.Select the option that states both reduced shift shock and improved torque transmission efficiency. Verification / Alternative check: OEM literature highlights adaptive shift strategies, torque management during shifts, and converter lock-up control to improve fuel economy and comfort, confirming the stated purpose. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Clutches are still required; the gear lever may remain (PRNDL selector); component count may increase due to electronics, not decrease. Common Pitfalls: Assuming electronics can compensate for low fluid levels or worn clutches; ignoring software calibration’s large impact on shift feel; overlooking the role of torque converter lock-up. Final Answer: reduce shift shock and achieve more efficient transmission of engine torque

Question 13

Vehicle Aerodynamics — Predicting Drag with Speed Changes A passenger car experiences an aerodynamic (air) resistance of R at a speed of 20 km/h. Assuming all other conditions remain the same and the flow is in the usual road-vehicle regime where ae…

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Aerodynamic drag is a major road load on vehicles at moderate to high speeds. Understanding how drag scales with speed helps in estimating power demand, fuel economy, and acceleration performance. This question tests the classic proportionality of drag with the square of velocity. Given Data / Assumptions: Baseline speed v1 = 20 km/h produces drag R. New speed v2 = 40 km/h. Same frontal area, drag coefficient, and air density (no wind, same altitude). Rolling resistance and drivetrain losses are not part of the asked change; only aerodynamic force is considered. Concept / Approach: The aerodynamic drag force on a vehicle is modeled as Fd = 0.5 * rho * Cd * A * v^2. Holding rho, Cd, and A constant, Fd is directly proportional to v^2. Therefore, when speed doubles, the drag force becomes four times the original value. Step-by-Step Solution: Let Fd1 = k * v1^2 = R, where k = 0.5 * rho * Cd * A.At v2 = 2 * v1, Fd2 = k * (2 * v1)^2.Compute: Fd2 = k * 4 * v1^2 = 4 * (k * v1^2) = 4R.Hence, the new aerodynamic resistance is four times the original. Verification / Alternative check: Power required to overcome drag is P = Fd * v, which scales as v^3. Doubling speed would require about eight times the power, consistent with drag quadrupling and speed doubling. Why Other Options Are Wrong: R: Implies drag independent of speed, incorrect.2R: Would be true if drag were proportional to v (linear), not v^2.4 R^2: Dimensional nonsense; squaring force is meaningless here.R/2: Opposite of the actual trend. Common Pitfalls: Confusing drag force (proportional to v^2) with required power (proportional to v^3).Ignoring the assumption that coefficients and air density remain constant. Final Answer: 4R

Question 14

Automotive Braking Systems — Typical Actuation of Service Brakes in Passenger Cars In production passenger cars, the service brake system (the primary foot brake) is generally actuated by which method?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Modern passenger vehicles rely on efficient, reliable service brakes that deliver consistent pedal feel and balanced braking across wheels. This question checks foundational knowledge of how most car braking systems are actuated. Given Data / Assumptions: Vehicle type: typical passenger car (not heavy truck or bus). Service brakes refer to the main foot-operated brakes. Ignore advanced assist features (ABS, ESC) which are overlays on the base actuation. Concept / Approach: The standard in passenger cars is hydraulic actuation: the driver’s pedal force is amplified by a brake booster and transmitted via a master cylinder and brake fluid to calipers or wheel cylinders. Mechanical linkages are typically reserved for parking brakes. Pneumatic (air) brakes are used primarily in heavy commercial vehicles due to their fail-safe characteristics and high energy storage capacity. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the platform: passenger car → hydraulic norm.Recall architecture: pedal → booster → master cylinder → hydraulic lines → calipers/wheel cylinders.Conclude the correct actuation method is hydraulic. Verification / Alternative check: Service manuals and regulations (e.g., FMVSS/ECE) describe hydraulic service brakes as the default for cars, with ABS/ESC modulating hydraulic pressure electronically. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Mechanical: used mainly for parking brakes or vintage vehicles.Pneumatic: typical of heavy trucks and buses, not cars.Electromagnetic/Vacuum only: vacuum provides assist, not actuation; electromagnetic braking is not standard as the primary system. Common Pitfalls: Confusing vacuum booster assistance with full vacuum actuation.Assuming air brakes from truck technology apply to cars. Final Answer: hydraulically

Question 15

Tyre Geometry — Definition of Aspect Ratio (Expressed as a Percentage) In tyre specifications, the aspect ratio is given in percent. Precisely, it is the ratio of which two dimensions?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Tyre markings like 205/55 R16 encode width, aspect ratio, and rim diameter. Understanding what aspect ratio means is vital for handling, comfort, speedometer calibration, and wheel well clearance decisions. Given Data / Assumptions: Aspect ratio is reported as a percentage in standard tyre notation. Section width is the nominal width of the inflated tyre (in mm) excluding protective ribs. Section height (also called sidewall height) is from bead seat to tread. Concept / Approach: Aspect ratio (%) = (section height / section width) * 100. For a 205/55 R16 tyre, the sidewall is 0.55 * 205 ≈ 113 mm. A lower aspect ratio means a shorter sidewall, typically improving steering response but reducing ride comfort and rim protection. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify dimensions: height (H) and width (W).Definition: AR = (H / W) * 100.Match to options: section height to section width. Verification / Alternative check: Cross-check any tyre marked XXX/YY: YY is the aspect ratio; computing H = W * YY/100 validates the definition. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Width/height is the inverse of the standard definition.Ratios involving wheel diameter are unrelated to aspect ratio in tyre coding. Common Pitfalls: Confusing tread width with section width; they differ.Assuming aspect ratio is a fixed size rather than a proportion tied to the chosen width. Final Answer: section height to section width

Question 16

Fuels for Spark-Ignition Engines — Typical Commercial Octane Ratings Select the most representative octane rating band for petrol (gasoline) commonly available at retail service stations.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Octane rating quantifies a gasoline’s resistance to knock in spark-ignition engines. Choosing the right octane prevents pre-ignition and detonation, safeguarding performance and engine life. This question asks for the typical band encountered at retail pumps. Given Data / Assumptions: Consumer petrol grades considered (regular to premium). Use of RON (Research Octane Number) or equivalent pump ratings, depending on region. Racing/specialty fuels are excluded. Concept / Approach: Common retail petrol grades fall broadly in the mid-80s to mid-90s octane range, depending on whether the posted number is RON, MON, or the average (R+M)/2. Regular unleaded is often around 87–91 (RON: ~91–95), and premium around 91–98 (RON: ~95–99). Thus, 85–95 captures typical commercial offerings worldwide. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify common consumer grades: regular and premium.Map regional posting standards to RON ranges.Conclude that 85–95 is the representative band for ordinary retail petrol. Verification / Alternative check: Compare typical pump labels in multiple markets: posted octane values cluster in the mid-80s to low-90s (or low-90s to high-90s RON). Why Other Options Are Wrong: 95–100 and above correspond to premium/specialty or racing fuels not typical of all markets.110–125 are aviation or racing grades, not standard retail petrol.70–80 is too low for modern automotive petrol. Common Pitfalls: Confusing RON with MON or the anti-knock index; always note the rating method. Final Answer: 85–95

Question 17

Piston Ring Functions — What Does the Second Ring Primarily Do? In a typical three-ring piston pack (top compression, second compression, and oil control), what is the principal role of the second ring?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Piston rings provide gas sealing, heat transfer, and oil control. While the top ring sees the highest thermal and pressure loads, the second ring is not redundant; it has defined sealing and heat-transfer duties, and it influences blow-by and oil consumption. Given Data / Assumptions: Engine with at least three rings: top compression, second compression, oil control. Normal ring orientations and end gaps set correctly. Focus on intended design function, not failure contingencies. Concept / Approach: The second ring is a secondary gas seal that reduces blow-by if the top ring leaks and assists heat conduction from the piston to the liner. Its geometry (taper face/napier) also aids in pre-scraping oil, indirectly helping the oil ring. It is not designed to “take over” after a top-ring failure, nor to act as a cushion. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify ring functions: sealing and heat transfer for compression rings; oil control for the oil ring.Assign the second ring: supplemental sealing + heat transfer + some oil pre-scrape.Select the option that captures these roles. Verification / Alternative check: Manufacturer service literature describes the second ring as a back-up sealing and heat path element, often with tapered or napier profiles to assist oil control. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Back-up in case of breakage is not a design function.Oil control substitution is the oil ring’s task.“Cushion” against slap is handled by clearances, skirts, and lubrication, not a ring. Common Pitfalls: Assuming the second ring is purely for oil control; it remains a compression ring first. Final Answer: Compression ring that aids the top ring in sealing and in transferring heat from the piston to the cylinder wall

Question 18

Automatic Transmissions — Core Gear Mechanism for Ratio Changes Within the gear unit of a conventional hydraulic automatic transmission, which mechanism provides the different forward and reverse gear ratios?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Automatic transmissions achieve multiple ratios and smooth shifts without manual synchronization. Recognizing the internal mechanism that enables compact, multiple gear ratios is essential for automotive engineering basics. Given Data / Assumptions: Hydraulic automatic transmission (not DCT or CVT). Focus is on the gearset that creates ratios; apply bands and clutches as needed. Modern units may have several planetary sets in compound arrangements. Concept / Approach: Planetary (epicyclic) gearsets provide multiple ratios by holding, driving, or outputting different members (sun, ring, carrier). Clutches and bands select which elements are locked or free, producing various forward speeds and reverse. Synchronizers are manual gearbox components. Multi-plate clutches are actuators that engage elements but do not themselves form the ratios. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify ratio-forming hardware: planetary gearset.Recognize role of clutches/bands: select and hold elements.Select “planetary gear” as the core mechanism. Verification / Alternative check: Exploded views of ATs show one or more planetary sets (Simpson, Ravigneaux, Lepelletier) used for ratio spread. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Synchronizer: used in manual transmissions.Magnetic clutch: not typical in AT gear units.Hydraulic multi-plate clutch: engages/locks elements but does not create gear ratios alone.Lay shaft with sliding dogs: manual gearbox architecture. Common Pitfalls: Confusing actuators (clutches/bands) with the ratio mechanism (planetary set). Final Answer: planetary gear

Question 19

Diesel Engine Design — Typical Compression Ratio Range Select the usual compression ratio range adopted in compression-ignition (diesel) engines for road vehicles and stationary power.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Compression ratio is the key parameter distinguishing diesel engines from spark-ignition engines. Higher ratios increase air temperature during compression, enabling auto-ignition of injected fuel. Knowing the normal range is essential for understanding efficiency, emissions, and starting performance. Given Data / Assumptions: Conventional four-stroke automotive and industrial diesels. Turbocharging/aftercooling may slightly influence chosen ratios but not the general range. Not considering extreme experimental engines. Concept / Approach: CI engines typically employ compression ratios from about 15:1 to 25:1. This range provides sufficient end-of-compression temperatures for reliable ignition across operating conditions, while balancing mechanical stress and NOx formation. Step-by-Step Solution: Recall: SI engines use ~8–12; CI engines much higher.Standard practice: light-duty ~16–18; heavy-duty may approach ~20–22.Therefore, the correct broad range is 15–25. Verification / Alternative check: Manufacturer datasheets for common diesels list CR within this band, confirming the norm. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 6–10 and 10–15 are typical of SI engines, insufficient for CI ignition.25–40 and higher are uncommon due to stress, noise, and diminishing returns. Common Pitfalls: Assuming turbocharged diesels always use lower CR; while sometimes reduced, they still sit within the 15–25 range. Final Answer: 15–25

Question 20

Steering Linkages — Why Use Ball Joints on Tie-Rod Ends? What is the main reason tie-rod ends employ ball-and-socket joints in passenger car steering systems?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Tie-rods connect the steering rack or center link to the steering knuckle. Because wheels move up/down with suspension travel and steer left/right, the joints must accommodate angular and small translational movements without binding while maintaining precise control. Given Data / Assumptions: Independent or solid-axle suspension with steering articulation. Requirement for durability under road shocks, dirt, and moisture. Need for low friction and tight lash to maintain toe settings. Concept / Approach: A ball-and-socket joint provides quasi-spherical articulation, allowing motion in multiple planes. It transmits tension and compression along the tie-rod while permitting angular changes due to jounce/rebound and steering lock. Boots and grease maintain lubrication and protect against contamination. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify required motions: vertical (suspension), horizontal (steering), and small compliance.Select joint type: ball joint meets multi-axis motion without binding.Therefore, the key reason is multi-directional accommodation with reliable force transfer. Verification / Alternative check: Exploded diagrams show ball studs captured in housings with liners, allowing angular displacement while maintaining preload. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Noise/sliding resistance reduction are secondary; the primary need is articulation.“Improve force transmission speed” is not an engineering objective here.Ball joints do not eliminate alignment needs; toe and camber still require adjustment. Common Pitfalls: Confusing ball joints on control arms with tie-rod ends; both are spherical but serve different connections. Final Answer: To handle suspension and steering movements in multiple directions while transmitting force reliably

Automobile Engineering Questions