How does a carburetor mix fuel and air?

The process by which a carburetor mixes fuel and air involves the Venturi effect, which is fundamental to its design and operation. When air flows through the carburetor, it passes through a narrowing in the venturi, which causes the air velocity to increase and its pressure to drop. This drop in pressure creates a vacuum that draws fuel from the fuel inlet or float chamber into the airflow. As a result, fuel is atomized and mixed with the incoming air, creating a combustible mixture that can be sent to the engine's combustion chamber.

This method of mixing ensures that the air-fuel mixture is well blended before it enters the engine, optimizing combustion efficiency. Other methods such as using a filter, mechanical pumps, or direct injection do not describe the traditional function of a carburetor in mixing fuel with air. The Venturi effect is central to the design of carburetors and is what allows for the precise control of the fuel-air mixture essential for effective engine performance.