Skip to main content
 

Hydrogen Powered Cars

The Wave of the Future?

By Joshua D. Hartman, Jack F. Eichler

Hydrogen Powered Cars


 

Abstract

This problem-based case study guides students through a systematic exploration of the scientific issues surrounding the application and development of hydrogen fuel technology. A PowerPoint presentation introduces a New York Times article about the impact of our abundant natural gas resources on the cost of hydrogen fuel production. The article includes an Energy Department estimate that places the gasoline-cost equivalent of hydrogen fuel production, compression, and distribution at less than $4 per gallon, making it a viable option for the transportation sector. Students are then given primary literature articles and a worksheet to help them examine (1) the benefits and drawbacks of using hydrogen as a fuel in automobiles and trucks, (2) the current technological/engineering limitations of using hydrogen fuel, and (3) whether the pursuit of developing large-scale use of hydrogen-powered cars is the right direction for the country. Originally written for a second semester/second quarter general chemistry course, the case study is designed to illustrate the direct application of chemical thermodynamics and gas laws to the production and distribution of renewable fuels.

   

Date Posted

08/11/2014

Overview

Objectives

  • Highlight the relevance of chemistry to current world issues.
  • Apply basic chemical knowledge to complex, multifaceted problems.
  • Develop the ability to critically analyze primary literature and draw conclusions based on the data and evidence contained therein.
  • Develop the ability to communicate scientific and technical concepts in both written and verbal form.
  • Foster the development of fundamental chemistry skills such as stoichiometry, calculating reaction enthalpies, and applications of the ideal gas law.

Keywords

Gas laws; thermodynamics; stoichiometry; calculating reaction enthalpies; hydrogen fuels; hydrogen energy; alternative fuels; renewable fuels; automobiles; trucks; transportation

  

Subject Headings

Chemical Engineering
Chemistry (General)
Environmental Science

EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

Undergraduate lower division

  

FORMAT

PDF, PowerPoint

   

TOPICAL AREAS

Policy issues, Social issues

   

LANGUAGE

English

   

TYPE/METHODS

Analysis (Issues), Journal Article, Problem-Based Learning

 

 

Asset 2