As the exhaust passes through the catalytic converter

Options

A. HCs are converted into CO and `H_2O`
B. Nitric oxides are changed to `N_2 and CO `
C. CO and HCs are removed by oxidation
D. `NO and NO_2` are converted to `CO_2` and HCS

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Function of a Catalytic Converter**:
- A catalytic converter is a device used in automobiles to reduce harmful emissions from the exhaust gases. It contains catalysts that facilitate chemical reactions without being consumed in the process.

2. **Components of Exhaust Gases**:
- The main components of exhaust gases include unburnt hydrocarbons (HC), carbon monoxide (CO), and nitrogen oxides (NO and NO2).

3. **Chemical Reactions in the Catalytic Converter**:
- As the exhaust gases pass through the catalytic converter, several reactions occur:
- Unburnt hydrocarbons (HC) are converted into carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O).
- Carbon monoxide (CO) is oxidized to form carbon dioxide (CO2).
- Nitrogen oxides (NO and NO2) are reduced to nitrogen gas (N2).

4. **Role of Catalysts**:
- The catalytic converter contains precious metals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium. These metals act as catalysts to speed up the reactions that convert harmful gases into less harmful substances.

5. **Final Products**:
- After passing through the catalytic converter, the harmful gases are transformed into:
- Carbon dioxide (CO2)
- Water (H2O)
- Nitrogen gas (N2)

6. **Conclusion**:
- The catalytic converter effectively reduces the emission of poisonous gases from automobiles by converting them into less harmful substances through oxidation and reduction reactions.