As mentioned earlier, by burning fossil fuels, CO2 gases (greenhouse gases) are released into the atmosphere, causing the decay of the ozone layer. Knowing that global warming may damage Earth, people are taking action against this form of pollution. Scientists are researching new ways of preventing the emission of greenhouse gases when burning fossil fuels. New methods of meeting our energy needs are also being developed which do not rely on fossil fuels. There is hope for a cleaner more environmentally friendly future. By investing in these alternate methods of generating energy, we are helping the Earth. In the future there may be cars that run without burning gasoline. At this time cars are being developed that run on hydrogen fuel cells, solar power, and chemical energy from batteries. These prototype have flaws, but our increased knowledge of technology will help us resolve these problems. These alternate methods of obtaining energy will help us meet our needs without hurting the environment.
Hydrogen Fuel Cells
Hydrogen Fuel Cells produce heat and electricity if there is the right input energy. The Fuel Cell has two electrodes that are around an electrolyte. When hydrogen goes over one of the electrodes and oxygen over the other electrode, energy is generated. Oxygen goes into the opening of the fuel cell, which is the negative pole and hydrogen goes into the opening of the fuel cell, which is the positive pole. The only by-product of hydrogen fuel cells is water. It is a renewable resource that we could use over and over again. Cars are being developed that use hydrogen fuel cells. The future looks bright for the use of fuel cells for energy.
