an engine that has twelve cylinders situated in a "V" shape (six on each side). In the
operation of certain engines, a fuel and air mixture is injected into a cylinder containing a piston. The mixture is ignited, resulting in an
explosion (combustion) that forces the piston downwards. As the piston is connected to a
crankshaft, the downward
motion is made circular. This
rotary motion is then transferred through various connecting pieces to other parts, such as wheels of a car or the propeller of a
ship. The V-
type mechanical design results in an engine that is more compact than an engine with the cylinders arranged in a
single line.
Having twelve cylinders also allows for more
power and smoothness than provided by an engine with only six or eight cylinders.