Question

The function of automobile catalytic converter is to control emissions of:

• A. carbon dioxide and hydrogen
• B. carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons
• C. carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide
• D. carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide

Answer 1

The correct option is B carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons

A catalytic converter is an emissions control device that converts toxic gases and pollutants in the exhaust gas to less toxic pollutants by catalysing a redox reaction (an oxidation and a reduction reaction). Catalytic converters are used with internal combustion engines fuelled by either petrol (gasoline) or diesel—including lean-burn engines as well as kerosene heaters and stoves. These converters combined oxygen with carbon monoxide ($CO$) and unburned hydrocarbons ($HC$) to produce carbon dioxide and water.