You probably have noticed that sports cars, particularly the Formula One type race cars, have wing-like structures at the rear and front portions. However, unlike airplane wings, these wing-like structures do not provide lift. Instead of lift, they provide down force. As the race car gains speed, the down force proportionally increases. This provides greater traction for the tires, allowing the car to make sharp turns and cornering at high speed. In this manner, rolling-over and skidding are prevented. Even on highly tilted tracks, Formula One race cars are able to easily run. Car safety is thus maintained by the wing-like structures.
These wing-like structures are otherwise known as spoilers. When it comes to Indy-type race cars, the spoilers are practical components. However, it is totally different when it comes to common street cars. The spoilers of common street cars are more decorative in purpose rather than practical or functional. In ordinary street cars, spoilers are generally not considered as built-in components. Hence, they are typically installed as aftermarket add-on accessories. They are generally screwed onto automobile panels. For instance, in a sedan type automobile, the spoiler is typically screwed directly on the trunk lid. This type of spoiler is usually constructed from light materials such as aluminum.
When it comes to modified automobiles, the spoilers are not purely for aesthetic purposes. The spoilers of these cars serve similar functions as the spoilers of the Formula One race cars. In some cases, these components also serve as streamlining components, breaking the wind resistance. In this manner, the car can move faster with less amount of wind drag. It is also with this purpose that spoilers are also installed on rooftops of certain automobile models. Aside from providing down force or serving as decorative components, automobile streamlining is also significantly improved.
Fuel combustion will not be possible without the presence of air. However, the air that enters the combustion chambers should be free from contaminants such as moisture, pollen grains and dust particulates. If contaminated air is allowed to enter the combustion chambers, the efficiency of fuel combustion will be drastically affected. The engine parts may also become damaged due to contaminants. For instance, moisture can cause corrosion of the engine parts. Moisture can also lower the temperature of combustion and cause the incomplete burning of the fuel. On the other hand, particulates may clog the sensitive parts of the engine such as the nozzles of the fuel injectors. Hence, the air filter is necessary to prevent contaminants from entering the combustion chambers.