Why are catalytic converters fitted within the exhaust systems of cars that use petrol as fuel?

Catalytic converters are fitted within the exhaust systems of petrol cars to reduce the emission of harmful pollutants such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons. These pollutants are produced when the fuel burns in the engine. The catalytic converter uses a catalyst to convert these pollutants into less harmful substances such as carbon dioxide and water vapour.

The catalyst is a ceramic or metal honeycomb structure coated with a thin layer of precious metals such as platinum, rhodium, and palladium. These metals act as catalysts, which means they speed up the rate of the chemical reactions that convert the pollutants into less harmful substances without being used up in the reactions.

The catalytic converter is located in the exhaust system near the engine. The hot exhaust gases pass through the converter, and the pollutants in the gases react with the catalyst, causing them to be converted into less harmful substances. The cleaned gases are then released into the atmosphere.

Catalytic converters are an essential part of modern petrol cars, and they play a vital role in reducing air pollution.