Catalytic Converter - How does it affect mileage?

[The_Big_K]

For the under-informed , I own Yamaha's RX-Z and it's got a catalytic converter.

The catalytic converter has 'dumped' the 'wroom' sound of the mobike and I do not like that. So I'd like to ask the mechanical/automobile engineers these questions -

1. What does catalytic converter actually do?
2. How does it affect the mileage of motorcycle?

Enlighten all of us, guys

[TheBugInYou]

Internal combustion engines produce emissions as they operate. To help reduce emissions that are harmful to our environment, catalytic converters have been developed.

A catalytic converter, is a simple device that “treats” the exhaust before it leaves a motorcycle’s exhaust system. Selected models in Yamaha’s line-up are equipped with three-way catalytic converters. “Three-way” refers to the three regulated emissions a catalyzer helps to reduce – carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and oxides of nitrogen. A catalytic converter consists of a ceramic structure coated with a metal catalyst, usually platinum, rhodium and/or palladium. The honeycomb structure of a catalytic converter allows the exhaust gases to easily pass through it. As the exhaust gases pass through the catalyzer, the platinum and palladium oxidize the hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide while the rhodium reduces the oxides of nitrogen to its elements. The end result is the catalytic converter changes harmful pollutants into less harmful by-products. The result is reduced levels of CO, HC and oxides of nitrogen in the exhaust gases. A catalyzer is normally located at the entry point of the muffler.

You must be satisfied with the above one....