DLC Blog

Hydrogen Fuel Cells: one alternative to high gas prices!

Scientists and government leaders around the world are trying to find an alternative to using gasoline as an energy source for vehicles. For you and me, buying a hybrid is one possible relief from high gas prices, but Hybrids are far too expensive!

One possible alternative is the hydrogen fuel cell. Hydrogen fuel is usually manufactured in a process called “electrolysis,” in which the hydrogen atoms in water are separated from the oxygen atoms and then compressed into fuel cells. When hydrogen is burned, it recombines with oxygen (creating water again) and releases energy. Proponents say that hydrogen fuel is better for the environment than gasoline because its byproduct is water, not smog and pollutants. However, critics argue that hydrogen fuel is not efficient because it is not a primary energy source. Manufacturers must use energy from other sources to create hydrogen fuel through electrolysis; because manufacturers must use energy to make more energy, some of the efficiency is canceled out.

Thinking Questions: What are other energy alternatives to petroleum and fossil fuels? What are their pros and cons? How is the burning of fossil fuels affecting our planet? How can scientists, government leaders, and industry make alternative energy more available? How can public transportation be improved?

[These questions are a few of the many reasons to explore careers in Science & Technology. Have you thought about what you want to do after high school?]

Lear more:
Hydrogen Fuel Cells
Careers in Math & Science

Posted by Yared at September 24, 2005 08:43 PM in Science.