1001 Space Earth Nature History Human World Science and Technology Chemistry Materials Force and Energy Heat and Light Electricity and Magnetism Industry Machines Electronics and Computers Cars and Trucks Railways Ships Aircraft Fishing and Agriculture Undersea Exploration	What does a catalytic converter do? Pollution from car fumes A catalytic converter removes poisonous gases from a car's exhaust system. The main pollutants are carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and unburned fuel. The converter changes these to harmless carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and water.   Previous: Back Book: 1001 Section: Science and Technology Chapter: Cars and Trucks