What is a catalytic converter?
GeneralClass 10CBSEAnswered 25 May 2026
Answer
A catalytic converter is a device in a vehicle's exhaust system that chemically converts harmful exhaust gases into less harmful substances before they exit the tailpipe.
Vehicle engines produce three particularly harmful gases:
- Carbon monoxide (CO) — poisonous
- Nitrogen oxides (NOx) — contribute to smog and acid rain
- Hydrocarbons (HC) — unburnt fuel vapours, contribute to smog
Inside the converter is a ceramic or metallic honeycomb structure coated with platinum, palladium, and rhodium precious metals that act as catalysts, speeding up chemical reactions without being consumed.
Two reactions occur:
- Oxidation: CO and HC → CO₂ and water
- Reduction: NOx → harmless nitrogen and oxygen
Suggested Q&A
General · Class 10- GeneralClass 10Explain the role of an entrepreneur as an innovator and job and wealth generator.
- GeneralClass 10The spirit of entrepreneurship helps an individual to grow. Explain this statement in detail.
- GeneralClass 10Explain the process of entrepreneurship in detail.
- GeneralClass 10Explain the role of entrepreneur as described by Peter Drucker.
- GeneralClass 10How does Jean Baptiste Say envisage the role of the entrepreneur?
- GeneralClass 10According to a famous thinker Peter Drucker, innovation is a specific instrument of an entrepreneur. Hence he believes that an effective entrepreneur converts a source into a resource. When is a source converted into a resource? Explain with the help if an example.