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What is the real name of petrol?

Published in Chemistry 2 mins read

While "petrol" is a common name, especially in British English, the "real name" of petrol is gasoline.

Petrol and gasoline are essentially the same thing: a fuel used primarily in internal combustion engines. The difference lies in the terminology used in different regions. In North America (United States and Canada), the term "gasoline" is predominantly used. In many other parts of the world, including the United Kingdom, Australia, and parts of Europe, the term "petrol" is more common.

Here's a breakdown of the terms:

  • Gasoline: Primarily used in North America.

  • Petrol: Primarily used in the UK, Australia, and some other countries.

The composition of both petrol and gasoline is essentially the same: a mixture of volatile, flammable liquid hydrocarbons derived from petroleum. The exact blend can vary depending on the region and the specific requirements for the engine.

Therefore, whether you call it petrol or gasoline, you're referring to the same type of fuel. The "real name" depends on the context and geographic location. However, considering the chemical composition, both terms refer to the same underlying substance: a petroleum-derived fuel.

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