What is the function of the carburetor in a small gas engine?

The carburetor plays a crucial role in the operation of a small gas engine by mixing air and fuel in the appropriate ratio needed for efficient combustion. This ideal mixture ensures that the engine receives enough fuel to maintain power while preventing issues like flooding, misfires, or inefficient burning. When the air enters the carburetor, it creates a vacuum that draws fuel into the airstream, where it becomes atomized, resulting in a fine mist that can be easily ignited in the engine's cylinders.

For effective engine performance, the air-fuel mixture must be balanced; too much fuel can lead to a rich mixture (causing black smoke and poor performance), while too much air can create a lean mixture (leading to overheating and possible engine damage). By regulating this mixture, the carburetor directly affects the engine's power output, efficiency, and emissions. This highlights the critical function of the carburetor as an essential component of small gas engines, ensuring optimal combustion conditions are met for reliable operation.