Naked Science Forum

Life Sciences => The Environment => Topic started by: Lewis Thomson on 17/01/2022 09:47:15

Title: Does hydrogen destroy the ozone layer?
Post by: Lewis Thomson on 17/01/2022 09:47:15

Ben wants help finding answers to this question.

"I read a report on the hydrogen economy. “Hydrogen reacts with ozone.” An Internet search of "hydrogen and ozone" confirms significant literature warning hydrogen may not be a benign alternative to fossil fuels. I’m fully subscribed to carbon reduction, but it would seem in the rush towards an alternative, a swing to H2 might fry our planet with UV. Is this the case?"

What do you think? Leave your thoughts in the comments below...

Title: Re: Does hydrogen destroy the ozone layer?
Post by: Bored chemist on 17/01/2022 11:05:51

I doubt that much hydrogen from "spilled fuel" would reach the ozone layer because it would react with air on the way up. Air, especially in sunlight, contains free radicals which would remove hydrogen.