Leaded and Unleaded Petrol

The video discusses the history of petrol use in cars, starting with its extraction from crude oil and its role in powering early engines. Thomas Midgley Jr.'s discovery of a lead compound improved engine efficiency but led to widespread use of leaded petrol, which posed significant health risks. By the 1980s, leaded petrol was phased out due to these concerns. The development of unleaded petrol and catalytic converters marked a shift towards safer alternatives. Today, efforts continue to create cleaner fuel technologies to reduce environmental and health impacts.

What was the main issue with early car engines before the discovery by Thomas Midgley Junior?

• They were too expensive to produce.

• They frequently misfired and caused cars to jolt.

• They were too noisy.

• They consumed too much fuel.

What compound did Thomas Midgley Junior add to petrol to improve engine performance?

• Sulfur

• Methanol

• Ethanol

• Lead

What was a major health concern associated with leaded petrol?

• It disrupted the production of red blood cells and affected children's mental development.

• It caused respiratory issues in adults.

• It was linked to cancer in animals.

• It increased the risk of heart disease.

When did the major study that led to the phasing out of leaded petrol take place?

• 1973

• 1983

• 1993

• 2003

What invention has helped reduce the toxicity of even unleaded emissions?

• Turbocharger

• Air filter

• Fuel injector

• Catalytic converter