Chapter EH, Problem 4R

Solution

Interpretation : The one advantage and one possible disadvantage of hydrogen fuel cells compared to conventional petroleum engines are to be evaluated.

Concept Introduction : Hydrogen belongs to the group 1 element because it only contains one valence electron. Some of the group 1 metals' characteristics are also shared by hydrogen.

Hydrogen fuel is a renewable source with fewer by-products and less noise.

It is very expensive when compared to petroleum engines.

Hydrogen and oxygen are combined in hydrogen fuel cells to create power without burning. The primary by-products of this reaction are heat and water.

Electricity is generated through electrolysis using hydrogen fuel cells.

Electric sparks are used in conventional petroleum engines to ignite the fuel.

Numerous byproducts are produced when petroleum fuel is burned.

There are advantages as well as disadvantages to using hydrogen fuel over petroleum engines.

Considered a green energy source, hydrogen fuel cells produce no negative byproducts. It is quite effective and charges very quickly (under 5 minutes). Free of noise pollution.

The hydrogen fuel cell can go up to 300 kilometers after being charged.

Due to their high cost and rarity, hydrogen fuel cells are not cost-effective which is the disadvantage of hydrogen fuel.