Catalytic converters are fitted into automobiles to reduce emission of harmful gases. Catalytic convertes change unburnt hydrocarbons into

Options

A. carbon dioxide and water
B. carbon monoxide
C. methane
D. carbon dioxide and methane

Answer

To solve the question regarding what catalytic converters change unburnt hydrocarbons into, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Function of Catalytic Converters**:
- Catalytic converters are devices installed in automobiles to reduce harmful emissions from the exhaust gases. They facilitate chemical reactions that convert harmful substances into less harmful ones.

2. **Identifying the Input**:
- The primary input that catalytic converters work on is unburnt hydrocarbons. These are compounds that have not fully combusted during the fuel burning process in the engine.

3. **Chemical Reactions in Catalytic Converters**:
- The catalytic converter uses catalysts (such as rhodium, palladium, and platinum) to promote reactions that convert unburnt hydrocarbons into less harmful products.

4. **Products of the Reaction**:
- The main products formed from the conversion of unburnt hydrocarbons are carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O). These are significantly less harmful compared to unburnt hydrocarbons.

5. **Analyzing the Options**:
- The options provided are:
- Carbon dioxide and water
- Carbon monoxide
- Methane
- Carbon dioxide and methane
- Based on our understanding, the correct transformation of unburnt hydrocarbons in the presence of a catalytic converter leads to the formation of carbon dioxide and water.

6. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, the correct answer to the question is that catalytic converters change unburnt hydrocarbons into **carbon dioxide and water**.