What component directs air into the cylinders of an engine?

The intake manifold is the component responsible for directing air into the cylinders of an engine. It serves as a distribution system that carries the air from the intake side of the engine into each cylinder, allowing for the proper mixture of air and fuel necessary for the combustion process. This air-fuel mixture is critical for optimal engine performance, as it affects power output, efficiency, and emissions.

The intake manifold is designed to ensure that the airflow is evenly distributed to all cylinders, promoting balanced engine operation. In modern engines, it may also incorporate sensors and features that aid in tuning the air intake for various driving conditions, enhancing overall engine efficiency and responsiveness.

While other components listed may play important roles in the engine's operation—such as the carburetor, which mixes fuel and air in older engines, and the throttle body, which controls the amount of air entering the engine—the intake manifold specifically directs the air into the combustion chambers and is thus the correct answer to the question.