Catalytic converters-NCERT 12 BIOLOGY

1. Catalytic converters: Catalytic converters, having expensive metals namely platinum-palladium and rhodium as the catalysts, are fitted into automobiles for reducing emission of poisonous gases. As the exhaust passes through the catalytic converter, unburnt hydrocarbons are converted into carbon dioxide and water, and carbon monoxide and nitric oxide are changed to carbon dioxide and nitrogen gas, respectively. Motor vehicles equipped with catalytic converter should use unleaded petrol because lead in the petrol inactivates the catalyst.
   
   Q. Why is the use of unleaded petrol recommended for motor vehicles equipped with catalytic convertors? 
   Q. Why are catalytic convertors recommended for vehicles?