by 
The Curious Bag
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A diesel engine differs from a gasoline engine in how it ignites fuel and in how air is introduced into the fuel. The process makes a diesel engine more efficient than a gasoline engine.
Ignition
In a gasoline engine the fuel is ignited by a spark from the spark plug, while in a diesel engine fuel ignites without a spark.
Combustion
In a gasoline engine air and gas meet in the carburetor and are ignited by the spark plugs. In a diesel engine air is compressed, which causes it to reach a high temperature and then the fuel is added and is ignited by the heated air.
Advantages
The lack of spark plugs means that maintenance costs are lower. Diesel engines run at cooler temperatures which lengthens their engine life.
Emissions
The emissions of a diesel engine contain high levels of nitrogen and particulates, which have been reduced greatly in past years, but are known to cause health problems.
Benefits
Because diesel engines are more efficient than gasoline engines, increasing their use can reduce America's dependence on foreign oil.
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