Question

Difficulty: EasyCooling System

As an internal combustion engine runs, heated liquid flows out of the engine block to be cooled before recirculating. Which cooling system component uses an array of thin metal tubes and cooling fins to dissipate heat from the fluid directly into the passing outside air stream?

  1. A
    Thermostat
  2. RadiatorAnswer
  3. C
    Alternator
  4. D
    Shock absorber

Answer

Radiator
The radiator is the primary heat exchanger in an automotive liquid cooling system. It consists of a core with narrow passage tubes and closely spaced cooling fins. As hot coolant passes through the tubes, heat conducts through the fins and transfers into the cooler outside air flowing across them.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the primary function described in the scenario
The component must transfer thermal energy from liquid engine coolant to the ambient air using tubes and fins.
Liquid cooling systems require a dedicated air-to-liquid heat exchanger to discharge absorbed heat outside the engine.
2
Evaluate the automotive components against this thermal management function
The radiator matches the specific design and function of an air-and-liquid heat exchanger located at the front of the vehicle.
While valves control flow and pumps drive circulation, the radiator specifically performs the heat transfer to the atmosphere.

Key Concept

Radiator heat dissipation function and construction
Estimated Time:45s
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