What does the volatility of gasoline refer to?

The volatility of gasoline refers to its tendency to vaporize. This property is crucial because gasoline needs to convert from a liquid to a vapor to mix with air and ignite in the combustion chamber of an engine. A highly volatile gasoline can vaporize easily at relatively low temperatures, facilitating efficient combustion and engine performance. Factors like temperature, pressure, and the composition of the gasoline itself can affect volatility; thus, it is essential for optimal starting, running, and overall efficiency of the engine. Understanding the volatility of gasoline aids in selecting appropriate fuels for varying environmental conditions and engine designs.