What component controls the intake and exhaust valves?

The component that controls the intake and exhaust valves is the camshaft. The camshaft plays a critical role in the engine's operation by driving the opening and closing of the valves at precise times during the engine cycle. It is designed with lobes or cams that push against the valve lifters, rocker arms, or directly against the valves themselves to allow them to open when the piston moves through specific parts of its stroke.

As the camshaft rotates, it is synchronized with the crankshaft, ensuring that the valves open and close in coordination with the position of the pistons. This timing is crucial for the engine's performance, as it impacts air and fuel intake and exhaust gas expulsion. A well-functioning camshaft ensures that the engine can breathe properly, contributing to efficient combustion and overall engine performance.

Other components mentioned, such as the crankshaft, piston, and timing belt, serve distinct functions in the engine. The crankshaft converts linear motion from the pistons into rotational motion to drive the vehicle, while the piston moves up and down within the cylinders to create pressure and initiate combustion. The timing belt connects the camshaft and crankshaft, ensuring they rotate in sync, but it does not directly control the valves itself. Thus, the