Automobiles are a main mode of transportation that allows people to move about a city, town or country. They use a fuel (gasoline, diesel, or kerosene) to generate electricity, which powers a motor that turns the wheels of the vehicle. This motor sends energy to the tires through a transmission system, which is often belt-driven. This energy may also come from the chemical potential of the gasoline, which makes it possible for the vehicle to accelerate or brake quickly. The amount of energy sent to the wheels is measured in kilowatts or horsepower.
The automobile is one of the most significant inventions in history. It has caused changes for industry and technology as well as for everyday life. It gave people more personal freedom and it created new industries, jobs, and services. For example, petroleum and gasoline became very popular and ancillary industries like rubber and then plastics grew. Services like gas stations and convenience stores also grew to meet the demand for automobiles.
Most of the automobiles in the world today are driven by internal combustion engines powered by gasoline, diesel or kerosene. The combustion of these fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, which is part of the reason that we have global warming. However, if drivers make sure that their cars are well maintained and driven sparingly, they can help reduce greenhouse gases.
Besides automobiles, there are other ways to get around, such as buses, trains (steam-powered, diesel-powered, or monorail), trams and subways. These vehicles transport many people at once, and they are usually much faster than driving a car. They can also go to places that a person cannot reach by car.
Many people own an automobile because it is convenient and saves time. In addition, an automobile can give a person more control over their schedule. People who do not own a vehicle must rely on public transportation or on friends, which can be inconvenient and unpredictable. Having an automobile also allows you to choose the route that you prefer to take.
The disadvantage of an automobile is that it causes air pollution and congestion in cities. Traffic congestion happens when too many vehicles try to go the same way at the same time. This can also lead to accidents and injuries. Many cities have laws that require a driver to wear a seatbelt when traveling by car.