Originally posted by ludeboom
lets not forget what "octane" really means
it doesnt mean more power for higher octane
octane is merely a way of measuring a certain fuel's tendency to combust when it is compressed.
octane is actually an 8 chain carbon molecule... it's electron lineup results in a tight bonding of the atoms, thus slowing it's breakdown thru resistance during combustion. higher octane count results in more octane molecules to help slow the combustion of the fuel.
but you're correct, octane is not a measure of it's refinement... sulfur content is the only true measure of a fuel's refinement.
to achieve different grades, higher grades are mixed with lower grades to maintain the required average of octane content as advertised.