What is the difference between a 2-stroke and a 4-stroke engine?

Question

Accepted Answer

2 stroke engines have a power stroke in each revolution, while 4 stroke engines have a power stroke in every other revolution.

2 stroke engines have a simpler design and are lighter than 4 stroke engines.
2 stroke engines have a higher power-to-weight ratio compared to 4 stroke engines.
4 stroke engines are more fuel-efficient and produce less pollution than 2 stroke engines.
Examples of 2 stroke engines include chainsaws, motorcycles, and outboard motors, while examples of 4 stroke engines include cars, trucks, and lawnmowers.

Accepted Answer

The main difference between a 4-stroke engine and a 2-stroke engine is that a 4-stroke engine goes through four stages, or two complete revolutions, to complete one power stroke, while a 2-stroke engine goes through 2 stages, or one complete revolution, to complete one power stroke. This means a 2-stroke engine can potentially produce twice as much power as a 4-stroke engine and also weigh less.