Motor vs. Engine

[Engineerd]

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.

 

[francesca]

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.

 

[ACtrafficengr]

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

 

[Engineerd]

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

 

[proletariat]

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

 

[LCruiser]

An engine is a type of motor.

 

[ACtrafficengr]

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

 

[Engineerd]

Yeah I didn't mean to either, Peace.

 

[aaronz82]

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.