Final answer:
A higher compression ratio in an engine leads to a larger proportion of the heat energy of combustion being turned into useful work at the crankshaft.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement is true. Other things being equal, a higher compression ratio in an engine leads to a larger proportion of the heat energy of combustion being turned into useful work at the crankshaft. This is because a higher compression ratio results in a greater expansion of the air-fuel mixture during the power stroke, which translates into more work output.