Understand the reasons for and the reasons against Hydrogen Energy
Hydrogen is being viewed as the fuel of the future. Do we need to take our time with it however and consider if should be the future of our portable energy?
Digital Workbook Task and Paper Jotter Task:
Create 2 mindmaps 1 for advantages and 1 for disadvantages of hydrogen energy
Include as much detail as possible and link together similar ideas between the advantages and disadvantages.
There are no carbon emissions from their use
It reduces our reliance on fossil fuels instead, using a renewable source
They are much more efficient than traditional engines (up to 80%)
Hydrogen fuel cars have a much greater range Vs other electric cars
With less moving parts than a combustion engine, fuel cells are reliable and quieter
Fuel cells do not degrade and can provide a continuous source of reliable electricity unlike battery powered equipment which will eventually lose charge
Fuel cells are typically more portable than combustion engines, which makes them easier to transport and suitable for use in inaccessible locations
They are easier to install, reducing costs for users
Water for the process of hydrogen is readily available
Hydrogen processes still require large amounts of energy to be generated. This typically comes from fossil fuels which are a limited resource.
This energy generation from fossil fuels continues to release greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere.
The by-product of hydrogen fuel cells is water vapour which is also a greenhouse gas that contributes to human-caused climate change.
Initial fuel cells were extremely expensive and large, new fuel cell types are being developed for mass manufacturing which will reduce costs
The development of newer fuel cell technologies is still in the transition period and it may be another 15 or 20 years before the technology becomes more widespread
There is a lack of infrastructure such as fuel stations and maintenance outlets to support a changeover from vehicles powered by petrol or diesel
Now return to your Teams assignment and complete the quiz to test how well you have understood this lesson