Piston-powered refers to a type of engine that uses pistons to convert fuel into mechanical energy. In this system, fuel is burned in a combustion chamber, creating pressure that pushes the pistons up and down. This movement is then transformed into rotational motion, which powers vehicles or machinery. Common examples of piston-powered engines include those found in cars, motorcycles, and aircraft. These engines can run on various fuels, such as gasoline or diesel, and are widely used due to their efficiency and reliability in generating power for transportation and industrial applications.