Which type of engines operate using both compression and power strokes to produce energy?

Four-stroke engines operate using both compression and power strokes as part of their cycle to produce energy. In a typical four-stroke engine, the cycle consists of four distinct strokes: intake, compression, power, and exhaust. During the compression stroke, the fuel-air mixture is compressed in the cylinder, which raises its temperature and pressure. Following this, the power stroke occurs when the compressed mixture is ignited, causing an explosion that forces the piston down and generates work.

This design maximizes efficiency and power output by ensuring that each stroke has a specific function in the overall operation of the engine. In contrast, two-stroke engines complete the cycle in just two strokes, combining the compression and power strokes into one cycle, which results in a different energy production mechanism. Rotary engines and spark ignition engines refer to different configurations and designs that may include a varied operational cycle but do not specifically denote the combination of both compression and power strokes as distinctly as four-stroke engines do.