Unit 6: Unit 6: Science in the Garage and Basement: Energy and Elements in the Home – Discussion

Our vehicles have come a long way from the Model T in the early 1900s. Each year the car industry comes out with new styles and incorporates new technologies. In recent history, the focus of the automotive world has shifted to fuel efficiency and even the possibility of using different fuel sources. As the world tries to reduce the dependence on fossil fuels societies all over the world are looking towards a future with a totally new kind of car. There are already hybrid cars on the roads today. What will the cars of the future run on?

This unit, you are going to do a little role-playing. Here is the scenario:

Congratulations! You have been elected to the Kaplanville Town Council’s Steering Committee on Infrastructure and Energy. Kaplanville wants to make a name for itself as a premier city for renewable and alternative energy choices. As a member of this committee, you are responsible for researching the exciting new world of alternative fuel for vehicles. Through this exploratory committee, you will decide on your top choice for an alternative fuel station to construct in Kaplanville.

Do some research to learn more about alternative fuels:

Source: Fuel economy. (2012). Retrieved from http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/current.shtml

Source: Alternative fuels data center. (2012). Retrieved from http://www.afdc.energy.gov/fuels/

Use your research to complete the following three components to this unit’s discussion:

1. Post at least one pro and one con for at least threeof the following alternative fuel sources: (Note: to maximize your learning, please try not to repeat the information that was previously shared by your classmates).
   1. Ethanol
   2. Biodiesel
   3. Natural gas
   4. Propane
   5. Hydrogen
2. During the unit, you should interact with your classmates and debate how suitable you think these alternative fuel sources might be for the future of vehicle transportation and Kaplanville.
3. Later in the unit week, make a post that contains your vote for which alternative fuel source you believe Kaplanville should create a station for. Be sure to give a clear explanation for your choice