Where Does Hydrogen Power Come From?
Hydrogen is the most plentiful gas in the cosmos, and the stars are mostly composed of hydrogen. Hydrogen reactions in our own sun fuel the cycles of nature and help support all life. Hydrogen power has great potential in terms of fueling our industries, powering our vehicles and providing electricity for our homes.
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Fuel Cells
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Electricity can come from hydrogen in the form of fuel cells, which are like batteries for storing energy. Small fuel cells are being used to power automobiles, while larger fuel cells are used to power systems on the space shuttle.
Fossil Fuels
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Hydrogen power is mostly derived from hydrocarbons in fossil fuels. When hydrocarbons are combusted, they release large amounts of radiant energy, which can be used through natural gas, coal, methane and heating oils.
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Solar Fusion
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All life on Earth is sustained by a massive fusion reactor called the sun. At the sun's core, hydrogen atoms combine to form helium atoms, which give off enough radiant energy to power the Earth's biological and ecological processes.
A Carrier, Not a Source
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Hydrogen is an energy carrier and not an energy source, because it requires more energy to produce than it makes.
Steam Reforming
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The least expensive way to produce hydrogen is through steam reforming. Ninety-five percent of the hydrogen produced in the United States is created by separating hydrogen from methane.
Electrolysis
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Electrolysis is a process resulting in zero harmful emissions. This new technology, which splits hydrogen from water, is very expensive and under constant development.
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