[VAlibrarian (OP)]

This topic is on my mind alot recently, because I have been reading some books about the end of the oil age (how soon will petroleum become scarce? what will be the pattern of pricing?) and also what is there out there that could replace it for transportation (is hydrogen possible as a "transmission" system of energy? Is it possible to build a safe vehicle powered by liquid hydrogen? Is it realistic to think of constructing thousands of refueling stations filled with a volatile substance? Where would the many billions of dollars come from? Finally, what would be the fuel source to separate water into hydrogen and oxygen on a massive scale?)

I realize that there is an element of economics here, but there is alot of science involved too, and I am interested in your views.

chris wiegard

[gecko]

were all ****ed.

[gsmollin]

Here are a few links about the hydrogen economy. I personally believe it is part of the solution of the future, but without practical fusion power to run it all, hydrogen is not an answer. Meanwhile, fusion research goes on a shoestring budget.

http://www.hydrogennow.org/
http://www.physicstoday.org/vol-57/iss-12/p39.html
http://www.nap.edu/books/0309091632/html/
http://www.iphe.net/
http://www.emagazine.com/view/?171
http://www.commondreams.org/views02/0902-04.htm
http://www.sciencefriday.com/pages/2002/Sep/hour2_091302.html

[Dr. Praetoria]

I'm having the same thoughts about our dire need for alternative fuel sources.  I see more and more wind generators being setup over areas that support such conditions and wonder if these could provide the needed energy in hydrogen production?

[VAlibrarian (OP)]

I enjoy your responses. Nuclear power seems to me to be part of the solution. Fusion would be great if we can make it work, but even conventional nuclear would lessen the global warming effect by virtue of generating no Carbon gasses.

Wind Power also has potential. Denmark is getting 20 % of its electricity from wind power according to the August National Geographic. Birds may be killed, but again no global warming.
I fear that we may not be able to exercise too much pickiness on this problem. We are well advised to make tough choices now before the oil runs out. If we argue and delay too long, many deaths could ensue.

I am not thrilled to be an American when I confront this topic, because I feel we are the worst offenders in the "why should I worry" mode of thought.

chris wiegard