What happens to engine components when the compression ratio is raised?

Raising the compression ratio in an engine affects the combustion process and the mechanical stresses placed on the engine components. When the compression ratio is increased, the air-fuel mixture is compressed to a smaller volume before ignition. This results in a more powerful combustion event, which can produce higher pressures and temperatures within the combustion chamber.

As a consequence, the engine components, such as the piston, connecting rods, and cylinder head, experience more severe loads. These increased loads can lead to a greater likelihood of mechanical failure if the components are not designed to handle the enhanced stress levels. Hence, it is crucial to ensure that all parts are adequately designed and manufactured to cope with the increased demands of a higher compression ratio to maintain engine reliability and performance.

Other options, such as experiencing less stress or functioning more efficiently, do not accurately reflect the mechanical implications of increasing the compression ratio, nor do they consider the reality of how combustion dynamics and material stress behave in such scenarios.