Chapter 20, Problem 32QAP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The reason for addition of tetraethyl lead to the gasoline in the past and the reason for this process to be phased out should be explained.

Concept Introduction:

Tetraethyl lead has been used as an antiknocking agent. Knocking is a process that occur in internal combustion engines that results in premature combustion of portions of fuel/air mixture without reaching the flame front where the fuel/air mixture should burn with the ignition that comes from spark plug. This ultimately results in an inefficient energy transfer. Gasoline (fuel) is mixed with antiknocking agents to overcome this problem. When antiknocking agents such as Tetraethyl lead are mixed with gasoline, it allows fuel/air mixture to reach higher temperature and pressure without being combusted reducing the premature combustion.