Naked Science Forum

Non Life Sciences => Chemistry => Topic started by: MK on 22/11/2007 23:18:24

Title: Hydrogen
Post by: MK on 22/11/2007 23:18:24

If Hydrogen burns why is it used in processes? Why doesn't it just blow up?
Title: Hydrogen
Post by: another_someone on 23/11/2007 01:24:59
Assuming we ignore nuclear fusion, then hydrogen does not burn - hydrogen burns in the presence of an oxidiser, and that is a key issue.

If you premix hydrogen and an oxidiser (such as oxygen, or chlorine), then it can explode; but if you do not premix the gasses, then it is only at the point where the two gasses meet that it will burn, and so the flame is contained and you don't get an explosion.
Title: Hydrogen
Post by: lightarrow on 23/11/2007 13:19:18

If Hydrogen burns why is it used in processes? Why doesn't it just blow up?
If gasoline burns, why don't cars blow up?
Title: Hydrogen
Post by: MK on 23/11/2007 17:09:39
It does in very small quantities which in turn power the turbines.

I was more curious about processes where Hydrogen and Carbon Dioxide were used and where Oxygen was a by-product - Wikipedia (Methane Production)