Question detail
What role does a catalytic converter play in reducing pollutants from internal combustion engines?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Alkanes
Question
- A. It increases fuel consumption
- B. It converts harmful gases into less harmful substances
- C. It cools the engine
- D. It increases the engine's power output
Answer
It converts harmful gases into less harmful substances
Explanation
A catalytic converter facilitates chemical reactions that convert harmful pollutants like carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides into less harmful gases, thus reducing emissions.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Pollutant Formation
Students often confuse the types of pollutants formed in internal combustion engines, thinking that only carbon dioxide is produced.
To clarify, remember that internal combustion engines produce several pollutants, including carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and unburned hydrocarbons, in addition to carbon dioxide. Focus on the combustion process: hydrocarbons react with oxygen to produce carbon dioxide and water, but incomplete combustion leads to carbon monoxide and other pollutants. For example, the reaction can be summarized as: C_xH_y + O_2 → CO + H_2O (incomplete combustion). This highlights the importance of complete combustion for reducing pollutant formation.
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