Gasoline
Gasoline,
also known (in the UK) as petrol, is a mixture of volatile
hydrocarbons which have 4 to 12 carbon atoms per molecule,
is used as a fuel for internal combustion engines. Almost
all gasoline is produced from petroleum by refining, cracking,
and alkylation, the fractions being blended to produce fuels
with desired characteristics. Motor gasoline boils between
30 degrees C and 200 degrees C, with more of the low-boiling
components in cold weather for easy starting. If, however,
the fuel is too volatile, vapor lock can occur -- i.e., vapor
bubbles form and hinder the flow of fuel. The structure of
gasoline components is also carefully controlled for maximum
power and efficiency, as reflected by the octane rating.
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