What I learned
❖ Internal combustion engines (ICEs) are the most common type of automobile engine. They use gasoline or diesel fuel to create a rapid explosive burn that drives the pistons in the engine, generating mechanical work.
- Electric motors are powered by electricity that is stored in a battery.
- Fuel cells are devices that convert hydrogen and oxygen into electricity. The electricity is then used to power the electric motor.
- Hybrid cars use a combination of ICE and electric motors. The ICE powers the car when it is moving at high speed, while the electric motor powers the car when it is moving at low speed or when it is stopped.
Most cars use ICEs, and the most common fuel for them is gasoline.
❖ Other sources of ICE fuel include:
- Gasoline: this is the most common fuel used in ICEs. It is a petroleum-based fuel that consists of a mixture of hydrocarbons.
- Diesel fuel: a liquid petroleum-based product/fuel that consists of heavier hydrocarbons than gasoline.
- Natural gas: a fossil fuel, a mixture of gases formed in the Earth’s interior, consisting of methane and other hydrocarbons.
- Propane is a colourless gaseous fuel that consists of propane and butane.
- Ethanol: is a renewable fuel produced from corn or other biomass.
- Biodiesel: is a renewable fuel produced from vegetable oils or animal fats.
❖ All fuels contribute to climate change. Burning them releases greenhouse gases (mainly carbon dioxide) into the atmosphere, which trap heat and lead to a warmer planet. They also directly endanger human health by releasing nitrogen oxides, sulphur oxides, fine particulate matter, and other air pollutants. The development of acid rain, water pollution, harm to aquatic ecosystems, and the depletion of natural resources are further adverse effects.
❖ One way to address these environmental problems is to use renewable energy sources. Renewable energy is derived from natural energy sources that are sustainable and continuously renewed naturally. In addition to lowering pollution, renewable energy increases our energy choices and lessens our reliance on the erratic price of fossil fuels. Renewable energy is a guarantee for our future and a factor in protecting the environment. Everyone has a responsibility to this future.
❖ Each one of us is responsible for this future and can contribute to protecting the environment.
