What effect does a high voltage have on the spark plug?

A high voltage applied to the spark plug creates a stronger spark, which is essential for effective ignition of the air-fuel mixture in the engine’s combustion chamber. When the voltage is sufficient, it ionizes the air gap between the center electrode and the ground electrode of the spark plug, allowing the electrical current to jump across the gap. This results in a more intense spark, which is capable of igniting the mixture more effectively, leading to better engine performance, more efficient combustion, and improved fuel economy.

The strength of the spark directly influences the ignition process; a stronger spark is more likely to ignite the mixture at the optimal point in the engine cycle, contributing to smoother operation and reducing the likelihood of misfires. This characteristic is crucial, especially in high-performance engines that require a reliable and consistent ignition source to operate effectively under various loads and speeds.