Answer to Question #325999 in Chemistry for mcc

Question

When incomplete fuel combustion happens in automobiles, it produces carbon monoxide. How does catalysis work in getting rid of this toxic gas? 

Answer 1

Incomplete combustion occurs when the supply of air or oxygen is poor. Water is still produced, but carbon monoxide and carbon are produced instead of carbon dioxide.

Catalytic converters use reduction and oxidation (redox) reactions to reduce harmful emissions.

Catalytic converters contain platinum and rhodium, which act as catalysts. The reactions in catalytic converters: convert carbon monoxide (which is toxic) into carbon dioxide. convert nitrogen oxides (which cause acid rain) into nitrogen and oxygen.