Does gasoline have color?
2 Answers
Gasoline is a yellow transparent liquid. The following is an introduction about gasoline grades and gasoline production: 1. Gasoline grades: Gasoline appears as a transparent liquid, is flammable, with a distillation range of 30°C to 220°C. Its main components are C5-C12 aliphatic hydrocarbons and cycloalkanes, along with a certain amount of aromatic hydrocarbons. Gasoline has a high octane number (anti-knock combustion performance) and is divided into different grades such as 90, 93, 95, and 97 based on octane ratings. 2. Gasoline production: Gasoline is produced by refining various gasoline components obtained from petroleum refining, including straight-run gasoline components, catalytic cracking gasoline components, and catalytic reforming gasoline components, which are then blended with high-octane components. It is mainly used as fuel for spark-ignition internal combustion engines in automobiles.
Let me share from an automotive repair perspective. Gasoline is typically clear and colorless, which you can notice when refueling. But in practice, if gasoline contains impurities or additives, it may turn yellowish or slightly greenish—for example, old gasoline appears cloudy after oxidation. As a mechanic, I often inspect fuel tanks and fuel lines. Color changes usually warn us that the gasoline may have deteriorated or mixed with water, affecting engine combustion efficiency. I would advise car owners to check fuel color during regular maintenance, especially when experiencing hard starts. Clean gasoline burns completely for better fuel efficiency—don’t overlook this small detail. If the color becomes too dark, replace it immediately to avoid damaging engine components. Developing good habits can save you big money in the long run.
