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5. (a) Petrol is a flammable liquid - Edexcel - GCSE Chemistry - Question 5 - 2014 - Paper 1
Question 5
5. (a) Petrol is a flammable liquid. Which hazard symbol is used on containers to show that the liquid in the container is flammable? Put a cross (X) in the box to s... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:5. (a) Petrol is a flammable liquid - Edexcel - GCSE Chemistry - Question 5 - 2014 - Paper 1
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Describe the disadvantages of hydrogen, rather than petrol, being used as a fuel in cars.
Answer
There are several disadvantages associated with using hydrogen as a fuel in cars compared to petrol:
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Storage and Distribution: Hydrogen must be stored under high pressure or at low temperatures, making storage tanks bulky and expensive. The infrastructure for distributing hydrogen is also limited compared to the extensive network for petrol.
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Energy Density: Hydrogen has a lower energy density by volume compared to petrol, meaning larger tanks are needed for the same range, which can affect vehicle design and efficiency.
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Production: Most hydrogen is currently produced from natural gas through a process called steam methane reforming, which emits greenhouse gases. Producing hydrogen in an environmentally friendly way, such as through electrolysis of water, requires significant energy resources.
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Safety Concerns: Hydrogen is highly flammable and can pose safety risks if not handled correctly. The potential for leaks and explosions is a concern, especially in crash scenarios.
Overall, while hydrogen is a cleaner fuel option, the challenges in its storage, distribution, production, and safety create significant hurdles for its widespread adoption as a fuel in cars.