Comparing the Internal Energy of Gasoline and Hydrogen

In summary, the internal energy of gasoline and hydrogen can be compared in terms of their heat of combustion and specific energy. Gasoline has a higher heat of combustion, while hydrogen has a higher specific energy. Understanding the internal energy of these fuels is important for determining efficiency and potential as alternative energy sources. Their chemical properties, such as molecular structure and bond energy, also play a role in their internal energy. Both can be measured in units of energy, and other factors such as storage conditions, combustion efficiency, and source can also affect their internal energy.
  • #1
pa5tabear
175
0
Calculating the internal energy of gasoline is fairly simple, because it wouldn't vary much with temperature or pressure.

For hydrogen, though, it would vary significantly with each. What sort of ranges would we be looking at?

I'm curious if it would be possible to get the same amount of energy from hydrogen as it would be from an equal volume of gasoline.
 
Physics news on Phys.org

1. How does the internal energy of gasoline compare to that of hydrogen?

The internal energy of gasoline and hydrogen can be compared in terms of their heat of combustion, which is the amount of energy released when they are burned in the presence of oxygen. Gasoline has a higher heat of combustion than hydrogen, meaning it releases more energy per unit mass when burned. However, hydrogen has a higher specific energy, meaning it contains more energy per unit mass overall. Therefore, while gasoline may release more energy when burned, hydrogen has a higher potential for energy storage.

2. Why is it important to compare the internal energy of gasoline and hydrogen?

Understanding the internal energy of different fuels is important for various reasons. For one, it can help in determining which fuel is more efficient for certain applications. Additionally, as we continue to search for alternative and sustainable energy sources, comparing the internal energy of gasoline and hydrogen can provide valuable insights into their potential as viable options.

3. How do the chemical properties of gasoline and hydrogen affect their internal energy?

The chemical properties of a substance, such as its molecular structure and bond energy, determine the amount of energy that can be released during combustion. Gasoline is a complex mixture of hydrocarbons, while hydrogen is a simple element with only one proton and one electron. This difference in chemical composition leads to the difference in internal energy between the two fuels.

4. Can the internal energy of gasoline and hydrogen be measured in the same units?

Yes, the internal energy of both gasoline and hydrogen can be measured in units of energy, such as joules or calories. This allows for direct comparison of their internal energy values.

5. What other factors can affect the internal energy of gasoline and hydrogen?

Aside from their chemical properties, other factors that can affect the internal energy of gasoline and hydrogen include the temperature and pressure at which they are stored and the efficiency of the combustion process. Additionally, the source of the fuel (e.g. renewable vs non-renewable) can also impact its overall internal energy and sustainability.

Similar threads

Automotive Gasoline Fuel Cells: Energy, Weight & Efficiency
    • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
10
Views
2K
Running a car on gasoline and hydrogen - the Volvo 740
    • Mechanics
Replies
1
Views
2K
I Emission Spectrum & Energy: Exciting Hydrogen Vapor
    • Quantum Physics
Replies
3
Views
615
Use internal pressure to compute work done by an expanding gas?
    • Mechanics
Replies
15
Views
2K
Meaning of potential energy in external fields
    • Mechanics
Replies
19
Views
996
Automotive Loss of gaseous volume because of fuel combustion
    • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
2
Views
198
I How Can Internal Energy of the Canonical Ensemble Change (Fluctuate)?
    • Thermodynamics
Replies
15
Views
1K
Is enthalpy just the sum of internal energy and work against external pressure?
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
324
Potential Energy and Potential -- Systems versus Particles
    • Mechanics
Replies
6
Views
10K
What is the difference between internal energy and enthalpy?
    • Chemistry
Replies
12
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top