What is the difference between a jet engine and a piston engine?

It's quite simple, really. A piston engine utilizes the linear motion of cylinders/pistons to combust the gasoline that drives the vehicle or appliance. A jet engine, however, uses a fluid (air) intake to assist in the compression of fuel. It comprises of many turbines and compression components that synchronize to force the expended fuel out the nozzle of the engine. This action creates direct thrust as opposed to the electrical energy produced in a piston engine.