Does Petroleum Produce Polluting Substances When Burned?

Gasoline is a toxic and highly flammable liquid. The vapors given off when gasoline evaporates and the substances produced when gasoline is burned (carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, and unburned hydrocarbons) contribute to air pollution.

Does petroleum pollute?

Air pollution hazards: Petroleum refineries are a major source of hazardous and toxic air pollutants such as BTEX compounds (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene). ... Refineries also release less toxic hydrocarbons such as natural gas (methane) and other light volatile fuels and oils.

What is produced by burning petroleum?

When petroleum products such as gasoline are burned for energy, they release toxic gases and high amounts of carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas.