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Motor vs. Engine

Motor vs. Engine

Motor vs. Engine

(OP)
I had a disagreement with my roommate about the difference between a motor and an engine. I was wondering if someone could clarify the difference for me.

RE: Motor vs. Engine

My husband says: A motor generates motion from electricity.  An engine generates power (electricity) which is usually used by a motor to generate motion.  

Google says: A motor turns electrical energy into kinetic energy while an engine turns thermal energy into kinetic energy.

RE: Motor vs. Engine

There is a big thread about this in the engineering language forum. This doesn't belong in the Traffic forum.

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     "...students of traffic are beginning to realize the false economy of mechanically controlled traffic, and hand work by trained officers will again prevail."

              Wm. Phelps Eno, ca. 1928

RE: Motor vs. Engine

(OP)
Where is this so-called "engineering language forum," I guess I'll go there since I'm not wanted here.

RE: Motor vs. Engine

If you are south of the Mason-Dixon Line it is a motor.  If you are north, it is an engine.

RE: Motor vs. Engine

An engine is a type of motor.

RE: Motor vs. Engine

Sorry, Engineerd. Didn't mean to sound snippy. Click on "Forum List" in the upper left hand corner, and it's the fourth entry under Eng-Tips Groups.

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     "...students of traffic are beginning to realize the false economy of mechanically controlled traffic, and hand work by trained officers will again prevail."

              Wm. Phelps Eno, ca. 1928

RE: Motor vs. Engine

(OP)
Yeah I didn't mean to either, Peace.

RE: Motor vs. Engine

Here in the northeast we use engine when referring to what runs an automobile.  I've only used the word motor when talking about a lawnmower.

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