Question

Why does maximizing the surface area of the core increase the effectiveness of a catalytic converter

Answer 1

A catalytic converter is an emissions control device that converts toxic gases and pollutants in exhaust gas to less toxic pollutants by catalyzing a redox reaction (an oxidation and a reduction reaction). Catalytic converters are used with internal combustion engines fueled by either petrol (gasoline) or diesel—including lean-burn engines as well as kerosene heaters and stoves.

Answer 2

The answer is: Increasing the surface area of the core increases the chances of collision taking place.

Increasing the number of collisions per second increases the rate of reaction.

A catalytic converter has core, washcoat and catalyst.

Core is a ceramic or stainless steel honeycomb that supports the catalyst.

Usually converter is made from platinum, palladium or rhodium.

Reactions occur faster with a catalyst because they require less activation energy.

Catalytic converter splitts up the molecules after they leave a a mobile source (for example car's engine) and before they get released into the air.

It reduces emissions rather than eliminate them completely.