4.2.4 Cylinder head
The cylinder head is essentially a body (usually made out of an aluminum alloy), which, depending on the design*, contains the camshaft (or shafts), as well as the intake and exhaust valves. The camshaft and valves are called the gas distribution mechanism (GDM). The camshaft is necessary for the timely opening of the intake and exhaust valves. The valves fit tightly against the cylinder head and are pressed down by valve springs.
That's the complete description of four-stroke gasoline internal combustion engine. There is nothing complicated.
* The expression "depending on the design" means that the camshaft or camshafts are not always located in the block head. This will be discussed in more detail in chapter 4.6 "Cylinder Head".
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