Which pollutants are controlled by catalytic converters in motor vehicles?

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New York City skyline tinted orange from wildfire smoke. — air pollution control Even something as simple as breathing can get complicated.

Catalytic converters are essential components in emission control systems designed to reduce the release of harmful gases from internal-combustion engines. They specifically target and mitigate the following pollutants:1

Hydrocarbons: These are oxidized into water vapour and carbon dioxide.1
Carbon monoxide: This is also oxidized into carbon dioxide.1
Nitrogen oxides: These are reduced into nitrogen and oxygen.1

By facilitating these chemical reactions through a catalyst-coated structure, the device significantly lowers the environmental impact of vehicle exhaust.1