Question

Use of lead-free petrol or diesel is recommended to reduce the pollutants emitted by automobiles. What role does lead play?

Answer 1

Use of lead in automobiles

Lead was previously used in automobiles to prevent engine knocking (the uneven burning of fuel). Nowadays, lead free petrol is used to prevent air pollution.

Role of lead in air pollution

• Lead affects human health by getting accumulated in the blood, reducing the oxygen carrying capacity.
• It crosses the placenta and the blood-brain barrier causing damage to the foetus.
• It affects the cardiovascular system, immune system, nervous system and kidney functions.