Alternative Fuels and Hybrid Technology. A Classroom Activity Designed To Evaluate a Contemporary Problem

• Autores: Amy H. Roy MacArthur, Christine L. Copper
• Localización: Journal of chemical education, ISSN 0021-9584, Vol. 86, Nº 9 (September), 2009, págs. 1049-1050
• Idioma: inglés
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• Resumen

  • As petroleum reserves are being depleted worldwide and energy costs are increasing, the use of alternative fuels is being more widely considered as a solution to the impending energy crisis. In this classroom activity students are presented with a real-world problem in which they must evaluate the properties and environmental impacts of a variety of fuels to find the best alternative to petroleum based on criteria set by a recent executive order. Students are asked to calculate thermodynamic quantities, fuel values, and energy densities for fuels such as hydrogen, methane, ethanol, and biodiesel. Issues relating to fuel storage and environmental impact are also explored. Additionally, students are asked to research hybrid vehicles and plug-in hybrid vehicles and compare the use of these technologies to use of alternative fuels previously studied.