Mythbusters Pumping Gas While Car Is Running: Is It Safe?
History of the Myth
The myth of pumping gas while the car is running is one that has been around for many years and is a subject that has been debated for just as long. The myth claims that pumping gas while the car is running can cause an explosion, due to the electric spark of the engine igniting the gas fumes. This myth has been around since the late 19th century and has been featured in many books, television shows, and movies. It has been widely popularized by the TV show Mythbusters, which first aired in 2003. Since then, the myth has remained a source of debate and confusion.
What Does the Science Say?
Believe it or not, the science says that it is actually safe to pump gas while the car is running. This is because modern cars are built with safeguards to prevent the spark from coming into contact with the gas fumes. This includes a mechanism to shut off the flow of gas when the car is running. Additionally, the tanks in most cars are made of metal and any spark from the engine will be grounded and dissipated by the metal. In short, modern cars are designed in such a way that it is impossible for the spark to ignite the fumes.
What About Older Cars?
Older cars, however, do not have the same safeguards that modern cars have. This means that it is possible for the spark from the engine to ignite the gas fumes. As such, it is recommended that people with older cars should not pump gas while their car is running. Additionally, if you are pumping gas into an older car, you should always turn it off before doing so.
What Are the Risks?
The risks of pumping gas while the car is running mainly depend on the age of the car. As previously mentioned, older cars are more likely to have the spark ignite the fumes. However, even with modern cars, there is still a risk of an explosion if the spark were to come into contact with the gas. In addition, the fumes from the gas can be dangerous and can cause nausea or dizziness if inhaled. As such, it is important to always take caution when pumping gas, regardless of the age of the car.
What Are the Alternatives?
If you do not feel comfortable pumping gas while the car is running, there are several alternatives. One option is to turn off the engine and pump the gas with the car in neutral. This will prevent the spark from coming into contact with the gas. Another option is to use a gas pump with a built-in shutoff mechanism. This will prevent the gas from flowing if the engine is running. Finally, you can always use the self-service pumps, which are designed to shut off the gas flow if the engine is running.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is safe to pump gas while the car is running as long as it is a modern car. Older cars, however, may not have the same safeguards and it is recommended that people with older cars should not pump gas while the car is running. Additionally, it is important to always take caution when pumping gas, regardless of the age of the car. If you are uncomfortable pumping gas while the car is running, there are several alternatives including turning off the engine, using a gas pump with a built-in shutoff mechanism, or using the self-service pumps.
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