What connects the cylinders to the muffler in an exhaust system?

The exhaust manifold plays a critical role in an exhaust system by connecting the cylinders of an engine to the muffler. When the engine combusts fuel, it produces exhaust gases that need to be expelled efficiently to maintain optimal engine performance. The exhaust manifold collects these gases from each cylinder and channels them into a single pipe that leads to the muffler.

This component not only serves as a hub for exhaust gases but is also designed to handle the high temperatures and pressures generated during combustion. By directing the exhaust flow, the manifold helps reduce back pressure and improves the overall efficiency of the exhaust system, which ultimately contributes to the vehicle's performance.

In contrast, the other options serve different purposes in an engine's operation. The fuel injector is responsible for delivering the right amount of fuel into the combustion chamber. The carburetor, which is typically found in older vehicles, mixes air and fuel for combustion, while the air filter cleans the air entering the engine. None of these components directly connect the cylinders to the muffler, which is the primary function of the exhaust manifold.