This article is from the Gasoline FAQ, by Bruce Hamilton with numerous contributions by others.
The intent of this FAQ is to provide some basic information on gasolines and
other fuels for spark ignition engines used in automobiles. The toxicity and
environmental reasons for recent and planned future changes to gasoline are
discussed, along with recent and proposed changes in composition of gasoline.
This FAQ is intended to help readers choose the most appropriate fuel for
vehicles, assist with the diagnosis of fuel-related problems, and to
understand the significance of most gasoline properties listed in fuel
specifications. I make no apologies for the fairly heavy emphasis on
chemistry; it is the only sensible way to describe the oxidation of
hydrocarbon fuels to produce energy, water, and carbon dioxide.
 
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