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.
Welcome to EcoLibrary! Students in my classes and workshops - ranging from college age to kindergarten - learn best when we use a lot of photographs and other rich teaching materials. EcoLibrary allows students and teachers to freely use materials that support learning about ecology, conservation biology, and the environment. EcoLibrary currently contains several hundred annotated photographs that illustrate key concepts in these fields, and as the site grows we will add maps, sounds, panoramas, and interactive exercises.
How do we know that the climate is changing? In this video, provided by scientist Kendrick Taylor, learn how 8-foot long ice core samples extracted from deep in the ice layer of Antarctica hold key evidence of rapidly changing climactic conditions. Its about 20 minutes, but explains the process from ice core extraction, analysis and data collection that make up our current climate models. Best for 11 and 12, but also good for 9 and 10 advanced students. Needs to be modified for ESL and RSP students, due to the amount of chemistry and physics vocabulary.