Eli5: Why is fuel/petroleum the liquid that makes cars run? What’s happening inside the car with this specific liquid that makes it go that can’t happen with other liquids?

Question

Eli5: Why is fuel/petroleum the liquid that makes cars run? What’s happening inside the car with this specific liquid that makes it go that can’t happen with other liquids?

In: Technology

Answer 1

Fun fact: M1 Abrams tanks have jet engines that compress air so much that any combustible fuel can be used.