Cracking (or Pyrolysis) is the process of breaking down high molecular weight hydrocarbons (long chains) into lower molecular weight hydrocarbons (shorter chains).

• Catalytic Cracking: Occurs at moderate temperatures in the presence of catalysts (like zeolites or silica-alumina).
• Products: It yields a mixture of lower alkanes (useful for gasoline/petrol) and alkenes (starting materials for the plastics industry).
• This process enhances the quantity and quality of fuel obtained from crude oil.