Diesel Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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diesel
[ˈdiːzəl ]
Definition
fuel type
Diesel is a specific type of fuel derived from crude oil, used mainly in diesel engines. It is known for its efficiency and energy density compared to gasoline. Diesel fuel powers various modes of transportation, including trucks, buses, and ships. Additionally, it is used in some cars and generators. Diesel engines are particularly popular in commercial applications due to their torque and fuel economy.
Synonyms
fuel oil, gas oil, petroleum.
Examples of usage
- The truck runs on diesel fuel.
- Many factories use diesel generators for backup power.
- The bus is powered by diesel engines.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Technology
- Diesel engines are known for their efficiency, often providing better fuel economy than gasoline engines.
- They work on a principle called compression ignition, where air is compressed in the engine cylinder, causing the fuel to ignite automatically.
- Modern diesel engines use advanced technologies like turbocharging and intercooling for improved performance and reduced emissions.
Environmental Impact
- While diesel engines are more fuel-efficient, they emit nitrogen oxides and particulates, which can harm air quality.
- Some diesel fuels have been blended with biodiesel, which is made from renewable sources like vegetable oils, aiming to reduce environmental impact.
- Regulations are in place globally to control diesel emissions, pushing manufacturers to innovate cleaner technologies.
Culture
- Diesel-powered vehicles, especially trucks and buses, are prevalent in the transportation industry, making it a cultural icon in logistics.
- In music and film, the term 'diesel' often evokes images of powerful machinery and strength, highlighting ruggedness and toughness.
- The 'Diesel' brand, known for its stylish clothing, also plays on the strength and energy associated with diesel engines.
Science
- Diesel fuel is typically derived from crude oil and undergoes a process called distillation to separate it from other components.
- The chemical structure of diesel is more complex than gasoline, containing longer carbon chains which contribute to its energy density.
- Research into alternative diesel fuels, including synthetic and biodiesel, is ongoing, aiming to create more sustainable energy sources.
Origin of 'diesel'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'diesel' comes from the name of the inventor, Rudolf Diesel, who created the diesel engine in the late 19th century.
- The word itself derives from the German term 'Dieselmotore', meaning diesel engine.
- Rudolf Diesel originally aimed to design a more efficient engine than those using gasoline.
The word 'diesel' is derived from the name of its inventor, Rudolf Diesel, who designed the first compression-ignition engine in the late 1890s. Diesel's vision was to create a more efficient engine than the steam engines that were commonly used at the time. His engine ran on a fuel that was oil-based and more energy-dense than traditional fuels. The term 'diesel' began to be used in a broader context to refer to not only the engine but also the fuel itself. By the early 20th century, diesel engines found applications in commercial transportation and agriculture, leading to the widespread use of diesel fuel throughout the world. Over the years, the technology and chemistry behind diesel fuel have evolved, resulting in various grades and formulations to meet environmental standards.
Word Frequency Rank
At #7,428 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.
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