<<< Emerging Technologies
Hydrogen
Hydrogen is the simplest element known to man. Each atom of hydrogen has only one proton. It is also the most plentiful gas in the universe. Stars are made primarily of hydrogen.
The sun is basically a giant ball of hydrogen and helium gases. In the sun’s core, hydrogen atoms combine to form helium atoms. This process‚ called fusion, gives off radiant energy.
Hydrogen gas is lighter than air and, as a result, it rises in the atmosphere. This is why hydrogen as a gas (H2) is not found by itself on earth. It is found only in compound form with other elements. Hydrogen combined with oxygen, is water (H2O). Hydrogen combined with carbon, forms different compounds such as methane (CH4), coal, and petroleum. Hydrogen is also found in all growing things‚biomass. It is also an abundant element in the earth’s crust.
Hydrogen has the highest energy content of any common fuel by weight (about three times more than gasoline), but the lowest energy content by volume (about four times less than gasoline). It is the lightest element, and it is a gas at normal temperature and pressure.
Pure hydrogen is not found in nature, so energy has to be used to separate hydrogen from the other substances it is stored in, either through ‚reforming‚ natural gas, extracting it from substances like methanol, or through electrolysis (the process of separating hydrogen from water). Currently 95% of hydrogen is produced from natural gas, a fossil fuel.
Hydrogen appears clean according to promoters, but it will require hundreds of billions of dollars in infrastructure, will be generated with fossil fuels for the foreseeable future, is less efficient than electricity, and is dangerous to store and transport.
http://www.energyjustice.net/hydrogen/
Another Bright Idea from GEBE:
Plant a Tree
Landscaping is a natural way to shade your home. Well-placed trees and shrubs not only save on air conditioning costs, but add value to your property too. Plus you are helping to reduce carbon emissions in the air.
