How does a diesel engine differ from a gasoline engine in ignition?

A diesel engine operates using a principle known as compression ignition, while a gasoline engine typically relies on spark ignition. In a diesel engine, air is compressed to such a high pressure that the temperature increases significantly. When fuel is injected into this highly compressed air, it ignites spontaneously due to the high temperature, which is a key feature of how diesel engines function.

In contrast, gasoline engines work by mixing fuel with air and then using a spark plug to ignite that mixture at the appropriate point in the power cycle. This fundamental difference in how combustion is initiated is one of the primary distinctions between these two types of engines. Understanding this aspect is crucial for recognizing how each engine type operates under different conditions and influences their design, performance, and fuel efficiency.