where did you learn your debating technique - air america radio?
it is a known, but hidden fact (by the ethanol lobby and pro-ethanol groups) that ethanol blend is dirtier than gas. In fact,the wisconsin epa did a study because of a proposed statewide ethanol mandate. They found that the increased use of ethanol in the state would require more clean air restrictions. See for yourself if you care to learn, or keep making snarky, nonsensical comments if you just want to remain ignorant.
http://www.hamilton-consulting.com/updates/docs/dnr_final_e10revised_090805.pdf
Google on "air quality and ethanol" and then go buy me a nice present as a way of apologizing.
As I commented in my last post, ethanol in gasoline blends increases the volatility of gasoline. This leads to more hydrocarbons in the atmosphere, which leads to a greater ozone risk. Note that this doesn't apply to pure ethanol, and doesn't apply as much to E-85.
However, ozone is just one kind of pollution. Other kinds of pollution that gasoline combustion deals with include:
* Nitrogen oxides
* Carbon monoxide
* Particulate matter
* Sulfur compounds
To reduce the first three, it is generally mandated that gasoline have an additive that provides oxygen in the fuel. Traditionally, this has been MBTE. However, requiring MBTE took the same sort of "only examine one problem" view that you espouse. They only looked at air pollution, but ignored a major problem of MBTE:
* MBTE contaminates water.
Ethanol doesn't. So, while an additive is generally needed for gasoline mixes to reduce more serious air pollution risks, you have to choose between whether you'd rather have a small amount of ground ozone increase or water contamination.