Antiknock: meaning, definitions and examples

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antiknock

 

[ æntɪkˌnɒk ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

automotive chemistry

Antiknock refers to the property of a fuel that allows it to resist knocking or pinging during combustion. It is essential for smooth engine operation, particularly in high-compression engines, where fuel must ignite in a controlled manner. Fuels with high antiknock ratings ensure greater efficiency and minimize engine damage.

Synonyms

knock resistance, octane

Examples of usage

  • Higher octane ratings improve antiknock properties.
  • The antiknock additive helps the engine run smoothly.
  • Choosing the right fuel can enhance antiknock performance.

Translations

Translations of the word "antiknock" in other languages:

🇵🇹 antidetonante

🇮🇳 एंटी-डिटोनेटर

🇩🇪 Antiklopfmittel

🇮🇩 antiknock

🇺🇦 антиклінкер

🇵🇱 antyklepa

🇯🇵 アンチノック

🇫🇷 antidétonant

🇪🇸 antidetonante

🇹🇷 antiknock

🇰🇷 항폭제

🇸🇦 مضاد الانفجار

🇨🇿 antiklopné činidlo

🇸🇰 antiklopné činidlo

🇨🇳 抗爆剂

🇸🇮 antiklopni dodatek

🇮🇸 andstæðingur

🇰🇿 антиклепа

🇬🇪 ანტიკლოპნური

🇦🇿 antiklop

🇲🇽 antidetonante

Etymology

The term 'antiknock' emerged in the early 20th century as the automotive industry began to emphasize the importance of fuel quality for engine performance. 'Anti-' originates from the Greek prefix meaning 'against' or 'opposite', while 'knock' refers to the undesired noise produced by irregular combustion in an engine. As automobiles evolved, especially with the introduction of high-compression engines, the need for fuels that could withstand higher pressures and temperatures became crucial. This led to the development of various antiknock additives, with tetraethyl lead being among the first and most notorious. Over the decades, regulations and health concerns have steered the industry toward unleaded fuels and alternative antiknock compounds. Today, understanding antiknock properties is essential for both manufacturers and consumers to ensure optimal vehicle performance and longevity.