8.3 Consider This:  Cell Phone Batteries

Many high-end cell phones are equipped with lithium ion batteries. Use the resources of the Web to find out more about this type of battery by searching for "lithium battery chemistry."

1. Why is this battery suited for use in portable devices?
2. What materials form the anode and the cathode of a lithium ion battery?
3. What is the voltage of a lithium ion battery?
4. What other types of batteries are used in cell phones? What are their advantages and disadvantages compared to lithium ion batteries?

8.4 Consider This:  The Federal Battery Act and You

Explore the provisions of The Battery Act .

1. Why was it necessary at the federal level to regulate battery manufacture, use by consumers, and disposal of batteries?
2. What types of batteries are regulated by The Battery Act?
3. What are some potential hazards associated with the improper disposal of batteries?
4. What do you personally do with your "dead" batteries? Explain the options available to you in your community.

8.6 Consider This:  Other Fuel Cell Technologies

Proton-exchange membrane fuel cells are not the only fuel cell technology being explored. For example, phosphoric acid is used as the electrolyte in many commercially operating fuel cell systems, and there are demonstration units for both molten carbonate and solid-oxide ceramic fuel cells. Use the resources of the Web to find out some additional information about the current status, advantages, and disadvantages of these alternate fuel cell technologies.

Hint: Start at the Smithsonian.

8.8 Consider This:  Military Electrons

Fuel cells find many applications in the military. Where and how? To find the military fuel cell demonstration site nearest you, check out the web site of the Department of Defense (DoD) on fuel cells. Check out several of the demonstration sites (military and residential) across the country to find out (a) the different uses of these fuel cells and (b) the cost savings reported.

8.12 Consider This:  Nickel versus Lithium-based Batteries

Are lithium-based batteries better than nickel-metal hydride ones? Use the Web to find details about these two types of batteries. Then, write a brief summary of your findings and give your conclusion as to which battery would be more suitable for use in an electric vehicle.

8.13 Consider This:  Hybrid Cars

Visit web sites for at least two different companies to find the latest information on their hybrid vehicles. Search for "hybrid car" or "advanced vehicles". You also may want to consult EV World (use a newer browser version for this site) and How Hybrid Cars Work for additional links.

1. What does the manufacturer say about them?
2. What information can you find about test driving, leasing, or buying hybrid cars?
3. What do the owners or users of these cars say about each type of hybrid car?
4. Are hybrid cars available in your region of the U.S.? If so, at what location?

8.15 Consider This:  Advanced Vehicles--Visit the Showroom!

Many of the major manufacturers are advertising their versions of advanced vehicles, those that use something other than a conventional gasoline-driven internal combustion engine. Are they available in your area? If so, visit the showroom and talk with a sales agent. (If not, visit an on-line salesroom.) What features would convince consumers to buy these cars? Design either a poster or a radio or television announcement that would help market an advanced vehicle.

8.20 Consider This:  Iceland’s Hydrogen Economy

The small country of Iceland is taking bold steps to be the first to cut its ties to fossil fuels. The strategy, announced in February 1999, is to demonstrate that it can produce, store, and distribute hydrogen as a means to power both public and private transportation.

1. Who are the partners in this joint venture?
2. What will be the first tangible outcome of this venture?
3. Do you think the lessons to be learned in Iceland will be relevant for the U.S.? Explain your reasoning.

8.22 Consider This:  A "Million Roofs" Perspective

Many success stories are associated with the Million Roofs initiative. Use the resources of the Web to investigate a project other than those discussed in the text.

1. What is the name of the project you picked and where is it located?
2. Who are the partners in this project?
3. What is the major purpose for which the energy provided by photovoltaics will be used?
4. What potential sociological problems could be created by bringing electricity to the people in the project you studied? Explain.