How does engine load affect fuel consumption?

Higher engine load typically leads to increased fuel consumption due to the greater power demand placed on the engine. When an engine operates under a higher load, it has to work harder to produce the necessary power, which generally requires more fuel to maintain performance. This is because the engine's efficiency is not uniformly linear; as load increases, the efficiency can decrease, leading to higher fuel usage.

In scenarios of high engine load, conditions such as increased friction, heat, and the necessity to maintain higher RPMs contribute to greater fuel intake. This relationship is essential for understanding the efficiency dynamics of engines, particularly in applications like heavy-duty trucks or industrial machinery, where load variations are common.

The other choices do not accurately describe the relationship between engine load and fuel consumption, as higher loads consistently correlate with increased fuel requirements. Understanding this connection helps in optimizing operations for better fuel management and efficiency.