Crude oil is processed in refineries to produce various products, including gasoline (petrol), diesel, jet fuel, and other petrochemicals. The refining process involves several stages, including separation, conversion, and blending.
Here's a simplified breakdown of the process of making car fuel from crude oil:
1. Separation: The crude oil is first heated in a distillation column, which separates it into different components based on their boiling points. Lighter components like natural gas, gasoline, and diesel rise to the top of the column, while heavier components like tar and asphalt sink to the bottom.
2. Conversion: Some of the heavier components from the distillation process, such as heavier hydrocarbons, are further processed through a process called cracking. This involves breaking down larger molecules into smaller ones, converting heavier components into lighter and more usable fuels like gasoline.
3. Blending: Different refined petroleum products are then blended together to create the desired fuel specifications. Additives like detergents and octane boosters may also be added to improve performance and quality.
4. Distribution: The finished fuel is stored and transported to gas stations and other fuel retailers, where it is sold to consumers.
Overall, car fuel is made by processing crude oil through various refining processes to obtain the desired fuel products, primarily gasoline and diesel.
