Question

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Catalytic converters are required on all new cars to reduce tailpipe emissions. Explain how this technology could have a beneficial impact in the short run but a less beneficial impact in the long run

Answer 1

Catalytic converters on cars reduce toxic emissions by promoting complete combustion and reducing nitrogen oxide emissions. They have a beneficial impact in the short run by improving air quality. However, in the long run, the increased demand for cars and the production of metals used in catalytic converters may have a less beneficial impact.

Step-by-step explanation:

Catalytic converters on cars are designed to reduce the amount of toxic emissions produced by burning gasoline. They work by using catalytically active metals to promote the complete combustion of carbon-containing compounds to carbon dioxide, while also reducing nitrogen oxide emissions. In the short run, this technology has a beneficial impact by significantly reducing harmful emissions and improving air quality. However, in the long run, it may have a less beneficial impact due to the increasing demand for cars and the potential for increased pollution from the mining and production of catalytically active metals.