Problem 24 - Chemistry: The Central Science

Question

List (a) three commercial means of producing \(\mathrm{H}_{2}\), (b) three industrial uses of \(\mathrm{H}_{2}\).

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Three commercial means of producing hydrogen are: (a) Electrolysis of water, (b) Steam Methane Reforming (SMR), and (c) Coal Gasification. Three industrial uses of hydrogen include: (a) Ammonia production, (b) Hydrogenation in the oil and chemical industry, and (c) Fuel cells for energy production.

Step 1: 1. Commercial means of producing Hydrogen

There are several ways to produce hydrogen commercially. Here are three common methods: a) Electrolysis of water (H₂O): In this process, an electric current is passed through water, splitting it into hydrogen and oxygen. b) Steam Methane Reforming (SMR): This method involves reacting methane (CH₄) with steam (H₂O) at high temperatures and pressure to produce hydrogen. c) Coal Gasification: In this process, coal is converted into hydrogen and carbon monoxide by reacting it with steam at high temperatures and pressures.

Step 2: 2. Industrial uses of Hydrogen

Hydrogen is a versatile element with a wide range of applications across various industries. Here are three primary industrial uses of hydrogen: a) Ammonia Production: Hydrogen is a key component in the production of ammonia (NH₃), which is an essential chemical used in fertilizers, refrigerants and as a raw material in various chemical industries. b) Hydrogenation in the oil and chemical industry: Hydrogen is used to treat various types of hydrocarbons through a process called hydrogenation, which can be used to create more valuable products by changing the chemical structure or removing impurities. Examples include the partial hydrogenation of vegetable oils and the hydrocracking of petroleum. c) Fuel cells for energy production: Hydrogen can be used as a clean and efficient source of energy in fuel cells, where it is combined with oxygen to produce electricity and water without producing greenhouse gases or air pollutants. Fuel cells can be used to power vehicles, buildings and as backup power sources for critical infrastructure.