The Fischer-Tropsch process is a chemical reaction that converts carbon monoxide and hydrogen into liquid hydrocarbons, primarily used to produce synthetic fuels. This process typically occurs in the presence of a catalyst, often made from metals like iron or cobalt, under high temperature and pressure conditions. Developed in the 1920s by Franz Fischer and Hans Tropsch, the process is significant for producing fuels from natural gas, coal, or biomass. It plays a crucial role in energy production, especially in regions with limited crude oil resources, enabling the creation of cleaner-burning fuels and reducing dependence on traditional oil sources.