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April 25, 2022, 2:30 p.m.

Could hydrogen be the clean fuel of the future?

Summary

As leaders around the world search for cleaner energy solutions to fight climate change, a question has emerged: Could hydrogen be the clean fuel of the future? Planes, trains, cars and buses need lighter and longer-lasting power than batteries can provide, some scientists say. Science correspondent Miles O’Brien explores the possibilities of hydrogen-powered engines and whether they can deliver.

Five Facts

  • What is hydrogen fuel?
  • How is hydrogen fuel produced?
  • What are some of the downsides of producing hydrogen fuel?
  • Why do some experts think hydrogen fuel might be an important alternative to batteries used in electric vehicles?
  • When were hydrogen fuels first produced, and why did they fall out of favor?

Focus Questions

How do you think this technology might change your community in the future? Do you think your community will rely on a different form of energy in the future? Why so? Media literacy : Do you think this piece did enough to explain the challenges or downsides of developing hydrogen fuel? How could you find out more about the pros and cons?

For More

For a similar look at another alternative fuel source that may help reduce dependence on fossil fuels, see below:

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