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Oxygen Sensor in a Car

An oxygen sensor, also known as an O2 sensor, is a key component of a car's exhaust system that measures the amount of oxygen present in the exhaust gas. The O2 sensor is responsible for providing continuous feedback to the car's engine control module (ECM) to ensure that the air and fuel mixture is at the optimal ratio for efficient and effective combustion. By providing accurate readings of the exhaust gas, the oxygen sensor plays a vital role in reducing harmful vehicle emissions and maintaining fuel economy.

How an Oxygen Sensor Works

When a car is in operation, fuel is burned in the engine, producing exhaust gases that contain a variety of chemicals, including oxygen. The O2 sensor, which is typically located in the exhaust manifold, measures the amount of oxygen present in the exhaust gas and sends this information to the car's ECM. The ECM then adjusts the air/fuel mixture in response to the oxygen sensor's readings, ensuring the engine is running at peak efficiency. This process is known as closed-loop fuel control.