Which type of engine is primarily associated with the Otto cycle?

The Otto cycle is a thermodynamic cycle that is specifically associated with gasoline engines. This cycle operates on the principles of idealized processes involving isentropic compression and isochoric (constant volume) heat addition, followed by isentropic expansion and isochoric heat rejection. Gasoline engines primarily utilize this cycle due to their design, which typically involves spark ignition.

The gasoline engine relies on the combustion of fuel-air mixtures, where the energy released during the combustion process propels the pistons, creating mechanical work. The efficiency and performance characteristics of gasoline engines are closely related to the principles outlined in the Otto cycle, making it the dominant cycle for these types of engines.

In contrast, diesel engines operate on the Diesel cycle, which involves different processes that maximize efficiency for heavier fuels. Steam engines utilize water vapor and its phase changes to generate work, unrelated to the Otto cycle principles. Rotary engines, while they can use various thermodynamic cycles, do not typically conform to the Otto cycle's operational framework.