Hello Everyone,
Have you ever noticed the numbers on the gas pump? These are octane ratings, which measure a fuel's ability to resist knocking during combustion. Knocking happens when fuel combusts prematurely in the engine, causing noise and potential engine damage.
Octane rating compares the fuel to a mix of iso-octane (resists knocking) and heptane (does not). For example, 87 octane fuel performs like a mixture that's 87% iso-octane and 13% heptane. Regular gasoline typically has an octane rating of 87, mid-grade around 89, and premium ranges from 91 to 93 or higher.
Higher octane fuel is more resistant to knocking, crucial for high-performance or turbocharged engines. However, most cars run efficiently on regular 87 octane fuel, and using a higher octane than recommended doesn't improve performance or fuel economy. It's essential to use the octane rating specified in your car's manual to ensure optimal performance and prevent engine knocking.
In summary, octane ratings indicate fuel's resistance to knocking. Regular 87 octane suits most cars, but high-performance engines may need higher octane. Knowing these ratings helps you choose the right fuel for your car's health.
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