Petrol, also known as gasoline or gas, is a volatile fossil fuel mainly used as a fuel for internal combustion engines. It is a flammable, liquid hydrocarbon mixture derived from crude oil through a refining process.
The primary purpose of petrol is to power vehicles, such as cars, motorcycles, and small planes. It is a vital component of transportation systems worldwide, providing the energy required for engines to function. Petrol is commonly stored and distributed in liquid form, typically in underground containers at gas stations, and is dispensed through pumps.
The composition of petrol varies, but it generally consists of a mixture of hydrocarbons, including alkanes, cycloalkanes, and aromatic compounds with carbon chain lengths ranging from 8 to 12 carbon atoms. The exact composition is determined by the specific refining process utilized and regional regulations.
Petrol is highly flammable and should be handled with caution. Its flammability contributes to its usefulness as a fuel but also poses potential safety hazards if not handled and stored properly.
In addition to its use as a transportation fuel, petrol is also utilized in various other applications, such as power generators, lawn mowers, and some industrial machinery. However, its primary use remains powering internal combustion engines in vehicles.
