essay of gas

school Campus Bookshelves
menu_book Bookshelves
perm_media Learning Objects
login Login
how_to_reg Request Instructor Account
hub Instructor Commons

Margin Size

Download Page (PDF)
Download Full Book (PDF)
Periodic Table
Physics Constants
Scientific Calculator
Reference & Cite
Tools expand_more
Readability

selected template will load here

This action is not available.

Gas Laws - Overview

Last updated
Save as PDF
Page ID 1517

Created in the early 17th century, the gas laws have been around to assist scientists in finding volumes, amount, pressures and temperature when coming to matters of gas. The gas laws consist of three primary laws: Charles' Law, Boyle's Law and Avogadro's Law (all of which will later combine into the General Gas Equation and Ideal Gas Law).

Introduction

The three fundamental gas laws discover the relationship of pressure, temperature, volume and amount of gas. Boyle's Law tells us that the volume of gas increases as the pressure decreases. Charles' Law tells us that the volume of gas increases as the temperature increases. And Avogadro's Law tell us that the volume of gas increases as the amount of gas increases. The ideal gas law is the combination of the three simple gas laws.

Ideal Gases

Ideal gas, or perfect gas, is the theoretical substance that helps establish the relationship of four gas variables, p ressure (P) , volume (V) , the amount of gas (n) and temperature(T) . It has characters described as follow:

The particles in the gas are extremely small, so the gas does not occupy any spaces.
The ideal gas has constant, random and straight-line motion.
No forces between the particles of the gas. Particles only collide elastically with each other and with the walls of container.

Real gas, in contrast, has real volume and the collision of the particles is not elastic, because there are attractive forces between particles. As a result, the volume of real gas is much larger than of the ideal gas, and the pressure of real gas is lower than of ideal gas. All real gases tend to perform ideal gas behavior at low pressure and relatively high temperature.

The compressibility factor (Z) tells us how much the real gases differ from ideal gas behavior.

\[ Z = \dfrac{PV}{nRT} \nonumber \]

For ideal gases, $ Z = 1 $. For real gases, $ Z\neq 1 $.

Boyle's Law

In 1662, Robert Boyle discovered the correlation between Pressure (P) and Volume (V) (assuming Temperature(T) and Amount of Gas(n) remain constant):

\[ P\propto \dfrac{1}{V} \rightarrow PV=x \nonumber \]

where x is a constant depending on amount of gas at a given temperature.

Pressure is inversely proportional to Volume

Another form of the equation (assuming there are 2 sets of conditions, and setting both constants to eachother) that might help solve problems is:

\[ P_1V_1 = x = P_2V_2 \nonumber \]

Example $\PageIndex{1}$

A 17.50mL sample of gas is at 4.500 atm. What will be the volume if the pressure becomes 1.500 atm, with a fixed amount of gas and temperature?

\[ \begin{align*} V_2 &= \dfrac {P_1 V_1}{P_2} \\[4pt] &=\dfrac{4.500~ atm \cdot 17.50~mL}{1.500 ~atm} \\[4pt] &= 52.50~mL \end{align*} \]

Charles' Law

In 1787, French physicists Jacques Charles, discovered the correlation between Temperature(T) and Volume(V) (assuming Pressure (P) and Amount of Gas(n) remain constant):

\[ V \propto T \rightarrow V=yT \nonumber \]

where y is a constant depending on amount of gas and pressure. Volume is directly proportional to Temperature

Another form of the equation (assuming there are 2 sets of conditions, and setting both constants to each other) that might help solve problems is:

\[ \dfrac{V_1}{T_1} = y = \dfrac{V_2}{T_2} \nonumber \]

Example $\PageIndex{2}$

A sample of Carbon dioxide in a pump has volume of 20.5 mL and it is at 40.0 o C. When the amount of gas and pressure remain constant, find the new volume of Carbon dioxide in the pump if temperature is increased to 65.0 o C.

\[ \begin{align*} V_2&=\dfrac{V_1 \,T_2}{T_1} \\[4pt] &=\dfrac{20.5~mL (60+273.15~K)}{40+273.15~K} \\[4pt] &= 22.1~mL \end{align*} \]

Avogadro's Law

In 1811, Amedeo Avogadro fixed Gay-Lussac's issue in finding the correlation between the Amount of gas(n) and Volume(V) (assuming Temperature(T) and Pressure(P) remain constant):

\[ V \propto n \rightarrow V = zn \nonumber \]

where $z$ is a constant depending on Pressure and Temperature.

Volume (V) is directly proportional to the Amount of gas (n)

\[ \dfrac{P_1}{n_1} = z= \dfrac{P_2}{n_2} \nonumber \]

Example $\PageIndex{3}$

A 3.80 g of oxygen gas in a pump has volume of 150 mL. constant temperature and pressure. If 1.20g of oxygen gas is added into the pump. What will be the new volume of oxygen gas in the pump if temperature and pressure held constant?

V 1 =150 mL

\[ n_1= \dfrac{m_1}{M_{\text{oxygen gas}}} \nonumber \]

\[ n_2= \dfrac{m_2}{M_{\text{oxygen gas}}} \nonumber \]

\[ \begin{align*} V_2 &=\dfrac{V_1 \cdot n_2}{n_1} \\[4pt] &= \dfrac{150~mL \cdot \dfrac{5.00~g}{32.0~g \cdot mol^{-1}}} {\dfrac{3.80~g}{32.0~g \cdot mol^{-1}}} \\[4pt] &= 197~mL\end{align*} \]

Id e al Gas Law

The ideal gas law is the combination of the three simple gas laws. By setting all three laws directly or inversely proportional to Volume, you get:

\[ V \propto \dfrac{nT}{P} \nonumber \]

Next replacing the directly proportional to sign with a constant(R) you get:

\[ V = \dfrac{RnT}{P} \nonumber \]

And finally get the equation:

\[ PV = nRT \nonumber \]

where $P$ is the absolute pressure of ideal gas

$V$ is the volume of ideal gas
$n$ is the amount of gas
$T$ is the absolute temperature
$R$ is the gas constant

Here, $R$ is the called the gas constant . The value of $R$ is determined by experimental results and its numerical value changes with units.

\[\begin{align} R &= 8.3145 ~J \cdot mol^{-1} \cdot K^{-1}~ \tag{in SI Units} \\[4pt] &= 0.082057 ~L \cdot atm \cdot K^{-1} \cdot mol^{-1} \nonumber \end{align}\]

Example $\PageIndex{5}$

At 655 mmHg and 25.0 o C, a sample of Chlorine gas has volume of 750 mL. How many moles of chlorine gas at this condition?

T=25+273.15 K
V=750 mL=0.75L

\[\begin{align*} n &=\frac{PV}{RT} \\[4pt] &=\frac{655~mmHg \cdot \frac{1 ~atm}{760~mmHg} \cdot 0.75~L}{0.082057~L \cdot atm \cdot mol^{-1} \cdot K^{-1} \cdot (25+273.15K) } \\[4pt] &=0.026~ mol \end{align*} \]

Evaluation of the Gas Constant, R

You can get the numerical value of gas constant, R, from the ideal gas equation, $PV=nRT$. At standard temperature and pressure, where temperature is 0 o C, or 273.15 K, pressure is at 1 atm, and with a volume of $22.4140~L$,

\[ \begin{align*} R &= \frac{PV}{nT} \\[4pt] &= \frac{1 ~atm \cdot 22.4140~L}{1 ~mol \cdot 273.15~K} \\[4pt] &=0.082057 \; L \cdot atm \cdot mol^{-1} K^{-1} \end{align*}\]

\[ \begin{align*} R &= \frac{PV}{nT} \\[4pt] &= \frac{1~ atm \cdot 2.24140 \times 10^{-2}~m^3}{1 ~mol \cdot 273.15~K} \\[4pt] &= 8.3145\; m^3\; Pa \cdot mol^{-1} \cdot K^{-1} \end{align*}\]

General Gas Equation

In an Ideal Gas situation, $ \frac{PV}{nRT} = 1 $ (assuming all gases are "ideal" or perfect). In cases where $ \frac{PV}{nRT} \neq 1 $ or if there are multiple sets of conditions (Pressure(P), Volume(V), number of gas(n), and Temperature(T)), use the General Gas Equation:

Assuming 2 set of conditions:

Initial Case: Final Case:

\[ P_iV_i = n_iRT_i \; \; \; \; \; \; P_fV_f = n_fRT_f \nonumber \]

Setting both sides to R (which is a constant with the same value in each case), one gets:

\[ R= \dfrac{P_iV_i}{n_iT_i} \; \; \; \; \; \; R= \dfrac{P_fV_f}{n_fT_f} \nonumber \]

If one substitutes one R for the other, one will get the final equation and the General Gas Equation:

\[ \dfrac{P_iV_i}{n_iT_i} = \dfrac{P_fV_f}{n_fT_f} \nonumber \]

Standard Conditions

If in any of the laws, a variable is not give, assume that it is given. For constant temperature, pressure and amount:

Absolute Zero (Kelvin): 0 K = - 273.15 o C

T(K) = T( o C ) + 273.15 (unit of the temperature must be Kelvin)

2. Pressure: 1 Atmosphere (760 mmHg)

3. Amount: 1 mol = 22.4 Liter of gas

4. In the Ideal Gas Law, the gas constant R = 8.3145 Joules · mol -1 · K -1 = 0.082057 L · atm·K - 1 · mol - 1

The Van der Waals Equation For Real Gases

Dutch physicist Johannes Van Der Waals developed an equation for describing the deviation of real gases from the ideal gas. There are two correction terms added into the ideal gas equation. They are $ 1 +a\frac{n^2}{V^2}$, and $ 1/(V-nb) $.

Since the attractive forces between molecules do exist in real gases, the pressure of real gases is actually lower than of the ideal gas equation. This condition is considered in the van der Waals equation. Therefore, the correction term $ 1 +a\frac{n^2}{V^2} $ corrects the pressure of real gas for the effect of attractive forces between gas molecules.

Similarly, because gas molecules have volume, the volume of real gas is much larger than of the ideal gas, the correction term $1 -nb $ is used for correcting the volume filled by gas molecules.

Exercise $\PageIndex{1}$

If 4L of H 2 gas at 1.43 atm is at standard temperature, and the pressure were to increase by a factor of 2/3, what is the final volume of the H 2 gas? (Hint: Boyle's Law)

To solve this question you need to use Boyle's Law:

\[ P_1V_1 = P_2V_2 \nonumber \]

Keeping the key variables in mind, temperature and the amount of gas is constant and therefore can be put aside, the only ones necessary are:

Plugging these values into the equation you get:

V 2 =(1.43atm x 4 L)/(2.39atm) = 2.38 L

Final Volume(unknown): V 2

Exercise $\PageIndex{2}$

If 1.25L of gas exists at 35 o C with a constant pressure of .70 atm in a cylindrical block and the volume were to be multiplied by a factor of 3/5, what is the new temperature of the gas? (Hint: Charles's Law)

To solve this question you need to use Charles's Law:

\[\frac{V_1}{T_1}=\frac{V_2}{T_2} \nonumber \]

Once again keep the key variables in mind. The pressure remained constant and since the amount of gas is not mentioned, we assume it remains constant. Otherwise the key variables are:

Since we need to solve for the final temperature you can rearrange Charles's:

\[T_2=\frac{T_1 V_2}{V_1} \nonumber \] Once you plug in the numbers, you get: T 2 =(308.15 K x .75 L)/(1.25 L) = 184.89 K

Final Temperature: T 2

Exercise $\PageIndex{3}$

A ballon with 4.00g of Helium gas has a volume of 500mL. When the temperature and pressure remain constant. What will be the new volume of Helium in the ballon if another 4.00g of Helium is added into the ballon? (Hint: Avogadro's Law)

Using Avogadro's Law to solve this problem, you can switch the equation into $ V_2=\frac{n_1\centerdot V_2}{n_2} $. However, you need to convert grams of Helium gas into moles.

\[ n_1 = \frac{4.00g}{4.00g/mol} = \text{1 mol} \nonumber \]

Similarly, n 2 =2 mol

\[ V_2=\frac{n_2 \centerdot V_2}{n_1} \nonumber \]

\[ =\frac{2 mol \centerdot 500mL}{1 mol} \nonumber \]

\[ = \text{1000 mL or 1L } \nonumber \]

Petrucci, Ralph H. General Chemistry: Principles and Modern Applications . 9th Ed. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Prentice Hall, 2007.
Staley, Dennis. Prentice Hall Chemistry . Boston, MA: Pearson Prentice Hall, 2007.
Olander, Donald R. "Chapter2 Equation of State." General Thermodynamics . Boca Raton, NW: CRC, 2008. Print
O'Connell, John P., and J. M. Haile. "Properties Relative to Ideal Gases." Thermodynamics: Fundamentals for Applications . Cambridge: Cambridge UP, 2005. Print.
Ghare, Shakuntala. "Ideal Gas Laws for One Component." Ideal Gas Law, Enthalpy, Heat Capacity, Heats of Solution and Mixing . Vol. 4. New York, NY, 1984. Print. F.

Have a question?

Are electric vehicles definitely better for the climate than gas-powered cars, yes: although electric cars' batteries make them more carbon-intensive to manufacture than gas cars, they more than make up for it by driving much cleaner under nearly any conditions..

October 13, 2022

Although many fully electric vehicles (EVs) carry “zero emissions” badges, this claim is not quite true. Battery-electric cars may not emit greenhouse gases from their tailpipes, but some emissions are created in the process of building and charging the vehicles. Nevertheless, says Sergey Paltsev, Deputy Director of the MIT Joint Program on the Science and Policy of Global Change, electric vehicles are clearly a lower-emissions option than cars with internal combustion engines. Over the course of their driving lifetimes, EVs will create fewer carbon emissions than gasoline-burning cars under nearly any conditions.

“We shouldn't claim victory that with this switch to electric cars, problem solved, we are going to have zero emissions,” he says. “No, that's not the case. But electric cars are actually much, much better in terms of the impact on the climate in comparison to internal combustion vehicles. And in time, that comparative advantage of electric cars is going to grow.”

One source of EV emissions is the creation of their large lithium-ion batteries . The use of minerals including lithium, cobalt, and nickel, which are crucial for modern EV batteries, requires using fossil fuels to mine those materials and heat them to high temperatures. As a result, building the 80 kWh lithium-ion battery found in a Tesla Model 3 creates between 2.5 and 16 metric tons of CO 2 (exactly how much depends greatly on what energy source is used to do the heating). 1 This intensive battery manufacturing means that building a new EV can produce around 80% more emissions than building a comparable gas-powered car. 2

But just like with gasoline cars, most emissions from today’s EVs come after they roll off the production floor. 3 The major source of EV emissions is the energy used to charge their batteries. These emissions, says Paltsev, vary enormously based on where the car is driven and what kind of energy is used there. The best case scenario looks like what’s happening today in Norway, Europe’s largest EV market: the nation draws most of its energy from hydropower, giving all those EVs a minuscule carbon footprint. In countries that get most of their energy from burning dirty coal, the emissions numbers for EVs don’t look nearly as good—but they’re still on par with or better than burning gasoline.

To illustrate how EVs create fewer emissions than their counterparts, Paltsev points to MIT’s Insights Into Future Mobility study from 2019. 4 This study looked at comparable vehicles like the Toyota Camry and Honda Clarity across their gasoline, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, battery electric, and hydrogen fuel cell configurations. The researchers found that, on average, gasoline cars emit more than 350 grams of CO 2 per mile driven over their lifetimes. The hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions, meanwhile, scored at around 260 grams per mile of carbon dioxide, while the fully battery-electric vehicle created just 200 grams. Stats from the U.S. Department of Energy tell a similar story: Using the nationwide average of different energy sources, DOE found that EVs create 3,932 lbs. of CO 2 equivalent per year, compared to 5,772 lbs. for plug-in hybrids, 6,258 lbs. for typical hybrids, and 11,435 lbs. for gasoline vehicles. 5

MIT’s report shows how much these stats can swing based on a few key factors. For example, when the researchers used the average carbon intensity of America’s power grid , they found that a fully electric vehicle emits about 25 percent less carbon than a comparable hybrid car. But if they ran the numbers assuming the EV would charge up in hydropower-heavy Washington State, they found it would emit 61 percent less carbon than the hybrid. When they did the math for coal-heavy West Virginia, the EV actually created more carbon emissions than the hybrid, but still less than the gasoline car.

In fact, Paltsev says, it’s difficult to find a comparison in which EVs fare worse than internal combustion. If electric vehicles had a shorter lifespan than gas cars, that would hurt their numbers because they would have fewer low-emissions miles on the road to make up for the carbon-intensive manufacture of their batteries. Yet when the MIT study calculated a comparison in which EVs lasted only 90,000 miles on the road rather than 180,000 miles, they remained 15 percent better than a hybrid and far better than a gas car.

And while internal combustion engines are getting more efficient, EVs are poised to become greener by leaps and bounds as more countries add more clean energy to their mix. MIT’s report sees gasoline cars dropping from more than 350 grams of CO 2 per mile to around 225 grams by the year 2050. In that same span, however, battery EVs could drop to around 125 grams, and perhaps even down to 50 grams if the price of renewable energy were to drop significantly.

“Once we decarbonize the electric grid—once we get more and more clean sources to the grid—the comparison is getting better and better,” Paltsev says.

Thank you to several readers for sending in related questions, including Ross Burlington of Riverside, California, Lloyd Olson of Webberville, Texas, and Thomas Marshall of Lake Charles, Louisiana. You can submit your own question to Ask MIT Climate here .

More Resources for Learning

Want to learn more.

Listen to this episode of MIT's "Today I Learned: Climate" podcast on electric cars.

Keep Exploring

Check out these related Explainers, written by scientists and experts from MIT and beyond.

Energy Storage

Freight Transportation

Related pieces, how is lithium mined, how clean is green hydrogen, why have electric vehicles won out over hydrogen cars (so far), how well can electric vehicle batteries be recycled, mit climate news in your inbox.

64 Natural Gas Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

🏆 best natural gas topic ideas & essay examples, 👍 good research topics about natural gas, 📌 most interesting natural gas topics to write about.

Gas Hydrates: Techniques of Extraction and Its Potential as an Alternative to Natural Gas The objectives of the given research are to consider the positive and the negative aspects of each gas hydrate production methods, as well as to revisit the alternatives to the gas hydrate use, which will […]
Safe Transportation of Liquefied Natural Gas Be that as it may, a raft of proposals is still required to improve the effectiveness of the measures of enhancing the safety of LNG transportation. We will write a custom essay specifically for you by our professional experts 808 writers online Learn More
Natural Gas Utilization Master-Plan in Nigeria The novelty of the project lies in the fact that it takes up on previous studies that have examined the issues surrounding the Nigerian natural gas economy. To examine energy utilization factors in Nigeria relevant […]
Safety, Health and Environmental Issues in Liquefying Methane From Algerian Natural Gas As one of the leading producers of liquefied natural gas in the world, the demand for this natural resource from Algeria is growing by the day.
Alberta Royalty Review Panel: Natural Gas and Oil Fields Hunter and the panel of experts have compiled the report to quantify the main grievance of the people of Alberta, Canada, that the people in this province do not receive a fair share of the […]
Natural Gas and Environmentalists Views As noted by BP, “Natural gas is expected to grow faster than oil or coal, helped by the rapid growth of liquefied natural gas increasing the accessibility of gas across the globe”.
Technology for Cheaper Natural Gas Prices The nature of the targeted arrangement is that these corporations will utilize most of their resources and innovations to deliver every outlined objective.
Liquefied Natural Gas in Qatar It is noted that the increasing volumes of gas production in Qatar, along with the need of a number of countries for its supplies, indicate the confidence of the world in Qatar.
Global Natural Gas Prices in 1940-2015 Moreover, oscillations of the price of natural gas lead to significant changes in the market and can result in the appearance of the world financial crisis.
Industry Changes: Floating Liquefied Natural Gas The entire process from extracting natural gas to delivering it to the market will be modified by the FLNG model, which makes FLNG a game-changer in the industry.
Liquefied Natural Gas Market, Supply and Demand This will create the shift in a supply curve, leading to the creation of the new equilibrium for Europe and the USA.
Oil and Natural Gases in Eurasian Region In other words, the oil and natural gas industry is an investment that holds the economy of the various states in Eurasia, and, therefore, the energy sector holds the power of the survival of these […]
Hydraulic Fracking for Natural Gas Extraction in Pennsylvania Moreover, the industry has embarked on the use of advanced technologies to ensure the safety and efficiency of the extracted gas through fracking.
Means of Mining Shale Natural Gas The invention of cheaper means of mining shale natural gas has resulted in an increase in production of gas in the U.S.
Liquefied Natural Gas Growth and Development Due to the safe properties of LNG and due to strict adherence of codes, standards and guidelines applying to LNG, LNG industry is being considered as one of the safeties fuel in meeting the global […]
Liquefied Natural Gas Role in Catering the Energy Demands Immediately, after the discovery of LNG in the North Sea of UK, import of LNG was ceased by UK and however due to recent fall in the reserves of gas, which compelled the UK to […]
Production of Liquefied Natural Gas 1 billion is assumed that it would strongly attract ANOC in considering Exxon Mobil as the best foreign company in exploring and producing gas that will be shipped to the East coast of the U.S.
Natural Gas, Oil, Coal, and Uranium in Russia The country holds the largest natural gas reserves and is among the top ten in terms of crude oil reserves. In addition, Russia is the fifth producer and the third largest exporter of coal in […]
Environmental Effects of the Production of Electricity by Various Energy Sources: Natural Gas vs. Its Alternatives Speaking of the effects of a power plant that is run on natural gas, it is necessary to point out that the effects on the environment are drastic, as a rule, seeing how the use […]
The Natural Gas Industry in US The use of the natural gas in the United States of America has increased compared to the recent past. The evolution of the natural gas markets is likely to be determined by the unconventional natural […]
Natural Gas Drilling and Health Effects on the Community The natural gas drilling usually has effects on both the environment as well as the community as it affects the air, water and the soil as well as the people who live near the drilling […]
Oil and Natural Gas Industry and Its Effect on the Economy The Purpose of the Research The main purpose of the research is to consider how oil and gas industry affects the economy of the country.
Evaluation of US Natural Gas Industry The Act’s aim was to protect the consumers from the emerging monopolies in the natural gas industry through price regulation of the natural gas.
Gas Infrastructure: Liquified Natural Gas It is important to note that, this type of fuel is a fossil fuel and is composed of hydrogen and carbon compounds; hence it is categorized as a hydrogen carbon fuel.
Supply and Demand Trends and Plans for Natural Gas in South Korea
Public Transportation and the Use of Compressed Natural Gas
The Relationship between Crude Oil and Natural Gas Prices: The Role of the Exchange Rate
The European Natural Gas Market: Imports to Rise Considerably
Technology and the Prospects for Natural Gas Results of Current Gas Studies
Russian Natural Gas Exports to Europe. Effects of Russian Gas Market Reforms and the Rising Market Power of Gazprom
Poverty and Social Impact Analysis of Increased Natural Gas Prices and Selected Social Guarantees in Ukraine
The Technology and Cost Structure of a Natural Gas Pipeline: Insights for Costs and Rate-Of-Return Regulation
Trading Volume, Maturity and Natural Gas Futures Price Volatility
Price Comovement Between Biodiesel and Natural Gas
Price Controls and the Natural Gas Shortage
Russian Natural Gas Policy and Its Possible Effects on European Gas Markets
Theoretical and Numerical Analysis on Pressure Recovery of Supersonic Separators for Natural Gas Dehydration
The Switching Relationship Between Natural Gas and Crude Oil Prices
The Weak Tie Between Natural Gas and Oil Prices
Strategic Storage and Market Power in the Natural Gas Market
Strategic Investment and International Spillovers in Natural Gas Markets
Time Series Analysis Applied to Construct Us Natural Gas Price Functions for Groups of States
Understanding the Risks and Benefits of Importing Liquefied Natural Gas
The Price and Income Elasticity of China’s Natural Gas Demand: A Multi-Sectoral Perspective
Transitioning the Tax System to Take Advantage of the Natural Gas-Rich Economy in Trinidad and Tobago
The Reasons for Measuring the Moisture Content in Natural Gas
The Fundamentals Underlying Oil and Natural Gas Derivative Markets
Regulation and Long-term Contracting in U.S. Natural Gas Markets
U.S. Energy Crisis and Increased Need for Natural Gas
The Supply, Demand, and Average Price of Natural Gas under Free-Market Conditions
The Resource And Product Market Of Natural Gas Production
Predicting the Discoveries and Finding Costs of Natural Gas: the Example of the Scotian Shelf
Price Convergence and Information Efficiency in German Natural Gas Markets
The Global Natural Gas Market: Will Transport Cost Reductions Lead to Lower Prices
Pollution Issues and Liquefaction of Natural Gas
The Short-Run Residential Demand for Natural Gas
The FPC Staff’s Econometric Model of Natural Gas Supply in the United States
Using Natural Gas Generation to Improve Power System Efficiency in China
Open Access and the Emergence of a Competitive Natural Gas Market
The World Gas Model: A Multi-Period Mixed Complementarity Model for the Global Natural Gas Market
Using Natural Gas Transmission Pipeline Costs to Estimate Hydrogen Pipeline Costs
Optimization for Design and Operation of Natural Gas Transmission Networks
Single and Multiple Objective Optimization of a Natural Gas Liquefaction Process
Trade Quotas And Buyer Power, With An Application To The E.U. Natural Gas Market
Chicago (A-D)
Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2023, January 24). 64 Natural Gas Essay Topic Ideas & Examples. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/natural-gas-essay-topics/

"64 Natural Gas Essay Topic Ideas & Examples." IvyPanda , 24 Jan. 2023, ivypanda.com/essays/topic/natural-gas-essay-topics/.

IvyPanda . (2023) '64 Natural Gas Essay Topic Ideas & Examples'. 24 January.

IvyPanda . 2023. "64 Natural Gas Essay Topic Ideas & Examples." January 24, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/natural-gas-essay-topics/.

1. IvyPanda . "64 Natural Gas Essay Topic Ideas & Examples." January 24, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/natural-gas-essay-topics/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "64 Natural Gas Essay Topic Ideas & Examples." January 24, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/natural-gas-essay-topics/.

Gas Prices Research Topics
Economic Topics
Electric Vehicle Paper Topics
Nuclear Weapon Essay Topics
Enron Topics
Gasoline Prices Ideas
Environmentalism Essay Topics
Greenhouse Gases Research Ideas
Atmosphere Questions
Exxon Ideas
Agriculture Essay Ideas
BHP Billiton Topics
Alternative Energy Paper Topics
International Politics Questions
Acquisition Essay Ideas

Why are fossil fuels so hard to quit?

We understand today that humanity’s use of fossil fuels is severely damaging our environment. Fossil fuels cause local pollution where they are produced and used, and their ongoing use is causing lasting harm to the climate of our entire planet. Nonetheless, meaningfully changing our ways has been very difficult.

But suddenly, the COVID-19 pandemic brought trade, travel, and consumer spending to a near-standstill. With billions of people recently under stay-at-home orders and economic activity plunging worldwide, the demand for and price of oil have fallen further and faster than ever before. Needless to say, oil markets have been in turmoil and producers around the world are suffering.

Some pundits are now asking if this crisis could be the push the world needs to move away from oil. One asked: “ Could the coronavirus crisis be the beginning of the end for the oil industry? ” Another: “ Will the coronavirus kill the oil industry and help save the climate? ” Meanwhile, 2020 annual greenhouse gas emissions are forecast to decline between 4 – 7% as a result of the virus’ effects, and some of the world’s smoggiest cities are currently enjoying clear skies.

The idea that the pandemic could ultimately help save the planet misses crucial points. First and foremost, damaging the world’s economy is not the way to deal with climate change. And in terms of oil, what will take its place? We haven’t found a good substitute for oil, in terms of its availability and fitness for purpose. Although the supply is finite, oil is plentiful and the technology to extract it continues to improve, making it ever-more economic to produce and use. The same is also largely true for natural gas.

Climate change is real and we see its effects clearly now: In 2019 worldwide, 15 extreme weather events , exacerbated by climate change, caused more than $1 billion in damage each. Four of these events each caused more than $10 billion in damage. The large-scale use of fossil fuels tops the list of factors contributing to climate change. But the concentrated energy that they provide has proven hard to replace. Why?

A reporter raised that very question to me after a press Q&A that I did at a conference a few years ago. “We know that oil contributes to climate change and other environmental problems — why do we still use it? Why don’t we just quit already?,” he asked me.

Until that moment, I hadn’t thought enough about how my experience and background give me a clearer view than many on the promise and challenge of moving to a cleaner energy system. I have gained a wide-angle view of the energy industry as I’ve moved through my career, working in government and in consulting — for both oil and gas and clean energy clients — and then moving into the think tank world.

fossil fuel Generated from the decomposition of ancient plant and animal matter over millions of years. Coal, oil, and natural gas are fossil fuels.

To deal with the challenge of climate change, we must start by understanding the fossil fuel system — namely how energy is produced and used. Although fossil fuel companies are politically powerful, in the United States and around the world, their lobbying prowess is not the key reason that their fuels dominate the global energy system. Likewise, the transition to an all-renewable energy system is not a simple task. But the politics of blame are popular, as we’ve seen during the 2020 election campaign and in light of recent lawsuits against fossil fuel companies. There is plenty of blame to go around, from fossil fuel companies that for years denied the problem to policymakers reluctant to enact the policies needed to force real change. It has been easier for everyone to stick with the status quo.

The world needs technology and strong policy to move in a new direction. Throughout history, humanity’s energy use has moved toward more concentrated, convenient, and flexible forms of energy. Understanding the advantages of today’s energy sources and the history of past transitions can help us understand how to move toward low-carbon energy sources. With greater understanding of the climate challenge, we are making huge strides in developing the technology we need to move toward a low-carbon future. Still, understanding how we got here and why the modern world was built on fossil fuels is crucial to understanding where we go from here.

Our energy comes from the sun, one way or another

In the pre-industrial age, solar energy met all of humanity’s energy needs. Plants convert solar energy into biomass through the process of photosynthesis. People burned this biomass for heat and light. Plants provided food for people and animals, which, in turn, used their muscle power to do work. Even as humans learned to smelt metals and make glass, they fueled the process with charcoal made from wood. Apart from photosynthesis, humans made some use of wind and water power, also ultimately fueled by the sun. Temperature differences in the atmosphere brought about by sunlight drive the wind, and the cycle of rainfall and flowing water also gets its energy from sunlight. But the sun is at the center of this system, and people could only use the energy that the sun provided in real time, mostly from plants.

biomass Plant material, including leaves, stalks, and woody mass. Biomass can be burned directly or processed to create biofuels , like ethanol.

This balance between human energy use and sunlight sounds like utopia, but as the human population grew and became more urban, the bio-based energy system brought problems. In England, wood became scarce in the 1500s and 1600s, since it was not only used for fuel, but also for building material. London, for instance, grew from 60,000 people in 1534 to 530,000 in 1696, and the price of firewood and lumber rose faster than any other commodity. The once lush forests of England were denuded.

In 1900, roughly 50,000 horses pulled cabs and buses around the streets of London, not including carts to transport goods. As you can imagine, this created an enormous amount of waste. As Lee Jackson writes in his book “ Dirty Old London ,” by the 1890s London’s immense horse population generated roughly 1,000 tons of dung per day. All this manure also attracted flies, which spread disease. The transportation system was literally making people sick. The pre-fossil era was not the utopia we envision.

Fossil fuels opened new doors for humanity. They formed from the transformation of ancient plants through pressure, temperature, and tens to hundreds of millions of years, essentially storing the sun’s energy over time. The resulting fuels freed humanity from its reliance on photosynthesis and current biomass production as its primary energy source. Instead, fossil fuels allowed the use of more energy than today’s photosynthesis could provide, since they represent a stored form of solar energy.

First coal, then oil and natural gas allowed rapid growth in industrial processes, agriculture, and transportation. The world today is unrecognizable from that of the early 19th century, before fossil fuels came into wide use. Human health and welfare have improved markedly, and the global population has increased from 1 billion in 1800 to almost 8 billion today. The fossil fuel energy system is the lifeblood of the modern economy. Fossil fuels powered the industrial revolution, pulled millions out of poverty, and shaped the modern world.

How energy density and convenience drove fossil fuel growth

The first big energy transition was from wood and charcoal to coal, beginning in the iron industry in the early 1700s. By 1900, coal was the primary industrial fuel, taking over from biomass to make up half the world’s fuel use. Coal has three times the energy density by weight of dry wood and is widely distributed throughout the world. Coal became the preferred fuel for ships and locomotives, allowing them to dedicate less space to fuel storage.

Oil was the next major energy source to emerge. Americans date the beginning of the oil era to the first commercial U.S. oil well in Pennsylvania in 1859, but oil was used and sold in modern-day Azerbaijan and other areas centuries earlier. Oil entered the market as a replacement for whale oil for lighting, with gasoline produced as a by-product of kerosene production. However, oil found its true calling in the transportation sector. The oil era really took off with the introduction of the Ford Model-T in 1908 and the boom in personal transportation after World War II. Oil overtook coal to become the world’s largest energy source in 1964.

Oil resources are not as extensively distributed worldwide as coal, but oil has crucial advantages. Fuels produced from oil are nearly ideal for transportation. They are energy-dense, averaging twice the energy content of coal, by weight. But more importantly, they are liquid rather than solid, allowing the development of the internal combustion engine that drives transportation today.

Different fuels carry different amounts of energy per unit of weight. Fossil fuels are more energy dense than other sources.

Oil changed the course of history. For example, the British and American navies switched from coal to oil prior to World War I, allowing their ships to go further than coal-fired German ships before refueling. Oil also allowed greater speed at sea and could be moved to boilers by pipe instead of manpower, both clear advantages. During World War II, the United States produced nearly two-thirds of the world’s oil, and its steady supply was crucial to the Allied victory. The German army’s blitzkrieg strategy became impossible when fuel supplies could not keep up, and a lack of fuel took a toll on the Japanese navy.

Natural gas, a fossil fuel that occurs in gaseous form, can be found in underground deposits on its own, but is often present underground with oil. Gas produced with oil was often wasted in the early days of the oil industry, and an old industry saying was that looking for oil and finding gas instead was a quick way to get fired. In more recent times, natural gas has become valued for its clean, even combustion and its usefulness as a feedstock for industrial processes. Nonetheless, because it is in a gaseous form, it requires specific infrastructure to reach customers, and natural gas is still wasted in areas where that infrastructure doesn’t exist.

A final key development in world energy use was the emergence of electricity in the 20th century. Electricity is not an energy source like coal or oil, but a method for delivering and using energy. Electricity is very efficient, flexible, clean, and quiet at the point of use. Like oil, electricity’s first use was in lighting, but the development of the induction motor allowed electricity to be efficiently converted to mechanical energy, powering everything from industrial processes to household appliances and vehicles.

Over the 20th century, the energy system transformed from one in which fossil energy was used directly into one in which an important portion of fossil fuels are used to generate electricity. The proportion used in electricity generation varies by fuel. Because oil — an energy-dense liquid — is so fit-for-purpose in transport, little of it goes to electricity; in contrast, roughly 63% of coal produced worldwide is used to generate electricity. Methods of generating electricity that don’t rely on fossil fuels, like nuclear and hydroelectric generation, are also important parts of the system in many areas. However, fossil fuels are still the backbone of the electricity system, generating 64% of today’s global supply.

Fossil fuels still dominate global electricity generation.

In sum, the story of energy transitions through history has not just been about moving away from current solar flows and toward fossil fuels. It has also been a constant move toward fuels that are more energy-dense and convenient to use than the fuels they replaced. Greater energy density means that a smaller weight or volume of fuel is needed to do the job. Liquid fuels made from oil combine energy density with the ability to flow or be moved by pumps, an advantage that opened up new technologies, especially in transportation. And electricity is a very flexible way of consuming energy, useful for many applications.

Back to the future – the return of the solar era

Fossil fuels allowed us to move away from relying on today’s solar flows, instead using concentrated solar energy stored over millions of years. Before we could make efficient use of solar flows, this seemed like a great idea.

carbon dioxide Carbon dioxide is gas released when carbon-containing fuels (biomass or fossil fuels) are burned. Carbon dioxide is the most important gas contributing to climate change.

However, the advantages of fossil fuels come with a devastating downside. We now understand that the release of carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) from burning fossil fuels is warming our planet faster than anything we have seen in the geological record. One of the greatest challenges facing humanity today is slowing this warming before it changes our world beyond recognition.

Now that there are almost eight billion of us, we clearly see the impact of rising CO 2 concentrations. Going back to the old days of relying mostly on biomass for our energy needs is clearly not a solution. Nonetheless, we need to find a way to get back to reliance on real-time solar flows (and perhaps nuclear energy) to meet our needs. There are so many more of us now, interacting via a vastly larger and more integrated global economy, and using much more energy. But we also have technologies today that are much more efficient than photosynthesis at transforming solar flows to useful energy.

Since 1900, global population and economic activity have skyrocketed, along with fossil fuel consumption.

Unfortunately, the atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide, the most consequential greenhouse gas, has steadily climbed at the same time, along with global average temperature. .

The earth gets plenty of energy from the sun for all of us, even for our modern energy-intensive lives. The amount of solar energy that reaches habitable land is more than 1,000 times the amount of fossil fuel energy extracted globally per year. The problem is that this energy is diffuse. The sun that warms your face is definitely providing energy, but you need to concentrate that energy to heat your home or move a vehicle.

renewable energy Renewable energy is from a source that is naturally replenished. (Ex: capturing wind using turbines or sunlight using solar cells does not change the amount of wind or sunlight that is available for future use.)

This is where modern technology comes in. Wind turbines and solar photovoltaic (PV) cells convert solar energy flows into electricity, in a process much more efficient than burning biomass, the pre-industrial way of capturing solar energy. Costs for wind and solar PV have been dropping rapidly and they are now mainstream, cost-effective technologies. Some existing forms of generating electricity, mainly nuclear and hydroelectricity, also don’t result in CO 2 emissions. Combining new renewables with these existing sources represents an opportunity to decarbonize — or eliminate CO 2 emissions from — the electricity sector. Electricity generation is an important source of emissions, responsible for 27% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions in 2018.

However, unlike fossil fuels, wind and solar can only generate electricity when the wind is blowing or the sun is shining. This is an engineering challenge, since the power grid operates in real time: Power is generated and consumed simultaneously, with generation varying to keep the system in balance.

greenhouse gas A gas that traps heat in the earth’s atmosphere, including carbon dioxide, methane, ozone, and nitrous oxides.

Engineering challenges beget engineering solutions, and a number of solutions can help. Power grids that cover a larger area are easier to balance, given that if it isn’t windy or sunny in one location, it may be somewhere else. Demand-response strategies can encourage customers with flexibility in their processes to use more power when renewable power is available and to cut back when it isn’t. Power storage technologies can save excess electricity to be used later. Hydroelectric dams can serve this function now, and declining costs will make batteries more economic for power storage on the grid. Storage solutions work well over a timeframe of hours — storing solar power to use in the evening, for example. But longer-term storage poses a greater challenge. Perhaps excess electricity can be used to create hydrogen or other fuels that can be stored and used at a later time. Finally, fossil fuel generation often fills in the gaps in renewable generation today, especially natural gas generation, which can be efficiently ramped up and down to meet demand.

Transforming solar energy flow into electricity is a clear place to start in creating a decarbonized energy system. A simple formula is to decarbonize the electricity sector and electrify all the energy uses we can. Many important processes can be electrified — especially stationary uses, like in buildings and many industrial processes. To deal with climate change, this formula is the low-hanging fruit.

The two parts of this formula must proceed together. A shiny new electric vehicle in the driveway signals your concern about the environment to your neighbors, but achieving its full potential benefit also requires a greener power system. For today’s power system in the United States, and nearly everywhere in the world, electric vehicles provide emissions benefits , but the extent of those benefits varies greatly by location. Achieving the full potential benefit of electric vehicles would require a grid that supplies all renewable or zero-carbon power, something that no area in the United States consistently achieves today.

Wind and solar power aren’t everything – the remaining challenges

“Electrify everything” is a great plan, so far as it goes, but not everything can be easily electrified. Certain qualities of fossil fuels are difficult to replicate, such as their energy density and their ability to provide very high heat. To decarbonize processes that rely on these qualities, you need low-carbon fuels that mimic the qualities of fossil fuels.

The energy density of fossil fuels is particularly important in the transportation sector. A vehicle needs to carry its fuel around as it travels, so the weight and volume of that fuel are key. Electric vehicles are a much-touted solution for replacing oil, but they are not perfect for all uses. Pound for pound, gasoline or diesel fuel contain about 40 times as much energy as a state-of-the-art battery. On the other hand, electric motors are much more efficient than internal combustion engines and electric vehicles are simpler mechanically, with many fewer moving parts. These advantages make up for some of the battery’s weight penalty, but an electric vehicle will still be heavier than a similar vehicle running on fossil fuel. For vehicles that carry light loads and can refuel often, like passenger cars, this penalty isn’t a big deal. But for aviation, maritime shipping, or long-haul trucking, where the vehicle must carry heavy loads for long distances without refueling, the difference in energy density between fossil fuels and batteries is a huge challenge, and electric vehicles just don’t meet the need.

WEIGHT OF FUEL

Gasoline carries much more energy per unit of weight than a battery. a gas-powered car with a 12.4-gallon tank carries 77.5 pounds of gasoline., a 77.5-pound battery, in contrast, would only carry an electric car 21 miles., an electric car with a range of 360 miles would need a 1,334 pound battery., weight of vehicle, despite the weight of the battery, other components of electric vehicles are lighter and simpler than their counterparts in a gasoline car. thus, the overall weight penalty for electric vehicles isn’t as severe as the weight penalty for the battery alone. .

Industrial processes that need very high heat — such as the production of steel, cement, and glass — pose another challenge. Steel blast furnaces operate at about 1,100° C, and cement kilns operate at about 1,400° C. These very high temperatures are hard to achieve without burning a fuel and are thus difficult to power with electricity.

Renewable electricity can’t solve the emissions problem for processes that can’t run on electricity. For these processes, the world needs zero-carbon fuels that mimic the properties of fossil fuels — energy-dense fuels that can be burned. A number of options exist, but they each have pros and cons and generally need more work to be commercially and environmentally viable.

Biofuels are a possibility, since the carbon released when the biofuel is burned is the same carbon taken up as the plant grew. However, the processing required to turn plants into usable fuels consumes energy, and this results in CO 2 emissions, meaning that biofuels are not zero-carbon unless the entire process runs on renewable or zero-carbon energy. For example, the corn ethanol blended into gasoline in the United States averages only 39% lower CO 2 emissions than the gasoline it replaces, given the emissions that occur from transporting the corn to processing facilities and converting it to fuel. Biofuels also compete for arable land with food production and conservation uses, such as for recreation or fish and wildlife, which gets more challenging as biofuel production increases. Fuels made from crop waste or municipal waste can be better, in terms of land use and carbon emissions, but supply of these wastes is limited and the technology needs improvement to be cost-effective.

Another pathway is to convert renewable electricity into a combustible fuel. Hydrogen can be produced by using renewable electricity to split water atoms into their hydrogen and oxygen components. The hydrogen could then be burned as a zero-carbon fuel, similar to the way natural gas is used today. Electricity, CO 2 , and hydrogen could be also combined to produce liquid fuels to replace diesel and jet fuel. However, when we split water atoms or create liquid fuels from scratch, the laws of thermodynamics are not in our favor. These processes use electricity to, in effect, run the combustion process backwards, and thus use large amounts of energy. Since these processes would use vast amounts of renewable power, they only make sense in applications where electricity cannot be used directly.

Carbon capture and storage or use is a final possibility for stationary applications like heavy industry. Fossil fuels would still be burned and create CO 2 , but it would be captured instead of released into the atmosphere. Processes under development envision removing CO 2 from ambient air. In either case, the CO 2 would then be injected deep underground or used in an industrial process.

The most common use for captured CO 2 today is in enhanced oil recovery, where pressurized CO 2 is injected into an oil reservoir to squeeze out more oil. The idea of capturing CO 2 and using it to produce more fossil fuel seems backwards — does that really reduce emissions overall? But studies show that the captured CO 2 stays in the oil reservoir permanently when it is injected in this way. And if enough CO 2 is injected during oil production, it might make up for the combustion emissions of the produced oil, or even result in overall negative emissions. This won’t be a panacea for all oil use, but could make oil use feasible in those applications, like aviation, where it is very hard to replace.

Carbon capture is today the cheapest way to deal with emissions from heavy industries that require combustion. It has the advantage that it can also capture CO 2 emissions that come from the process itself, rather than from fuel combustion, as occurs in cement production when limestone is heated to produce a component of cement with CO 2 as a by-product.

When considering how carbon capture might contribute to climate change mitigation, we have to remember that fossil fuels are not the ultimate cause of the problem — CO 2 emissions are. If maintaining some fossil fuel use with carbon capture is the easiest way to deal with certain sources of emissions, that’s still solving the fundamental problem.

Our biggest challenges are political

Science clearly tells us that we need to remake our energy system and eliminate CO 2 emissions. However, in addition to the engineering challenges, the nature of climate change makes it politically challenging to deal with as well. Minimizing the impact of climate change requires re-making a multi-trillion-dollar industry that lies at the center of the economy and people’s lives. Reducing humanity’s reliance on fossil fuels requires investments here and now that provide uncertain, long-term benefits. These decisions are particularly difficult for politicians, who tend to focus on policies with immediate, local benefits that voters can see. Last year The New York Times asked , for instance, “whether any climate policy is both big enough to matter and popular enough to happen.” Durable climate policy requires securing buy-in from a range of actors, including politicians from both parties, business leaders, and civil society. Their perspectives inevitably differ, and the lack of consensus — combined with very real efforts to exert pressure on the policymaking process — is a key reason that climate action is so politically difficult. (To try your hand at navigating the policy dilemmas, play our — admittedly simplified! — game below: “A president’s climate quandary.”)

In the United States and other parts of the wealthy world, current efforts focus on reducing the greenhouse gas emissions from our energy-intensive lives. But the second part of today’s energy challenge is providing modern energy to the billion people in the developing world that don’t currently have it. You don’t hear as much about the second goal in the public discourse about climate change, but it’s crucial that developing countries follow a cleaner path than the developed world did. The need to provide both cleaner energy and more energy for developing countries magnifies the challenge, but a solution that leaves out the developing world is no solution at all.

Plentiful and inexpensive fossil fuels make transitioning away from them more difficult. Around 15 years ago, pundits were focused on “peak oil” — the idea that the world was running out of oil, or at least inexpensive oil, and that a reckoning was coming. Events of the past decade have proven that theory wrong. Instead of declining oil production and rising prices, we’ve seen the opposite, nowhere more than here in the United States. Technology has brought about a boom in oil production; geologists long knew the resources were there, but did not know how to make money producing them. There’s no reason to expect this trend to slow down anytime soon. In other words, running out of oil will not save us. The world will need to transition away from oil and other fossil fuels while they are abundant and inexpensive — not an easy task.

To achieve this technically and politically challenging transition, we need to avoid one-dimensional solutions. My own thoughts about how we need to deal with climate change have certainly evolved over time, as we understand the climate system better and as time passes with emissions still increasing. As an example, I used to be skeptical of the idea of carbon capture, either from industrial processes or directly from the air. The engineer in me just couldn’t see using such an energy-hungry process to capture emissions. I’ve changed my mind, with a greater understanding of processes that will be hard to decarbonize any other way.

The accumulation of CO 2 in the atmosphere is like putting air into a balloon. It’s a cumulative system: We’re continually adding to the total concentration of a substance that may last in the atmosphere for up to 200 years. We don’t know when the effects of warming will become overwhelming, but we do know that the system will become stretched and compromised — experiencing more negative effects — as the balloon fills. The cumulative nature of the climate system means that we need more stringent measures the longer that we wait. In other words: Sooner action is better. We need to take action now where it’s easiest, in the electricity and light vehicle sectors, and in making new buildings extremely energy efficient. Other sectors need more technology, like heavy transport and industry, or will take a long time, like improving our existing stock of buildings.

Those pushing to end fossil fuel production now are missing the point that fossil fuels will still be needed for some time in certain sectors. Eliminating unpopular energy sources or technologies, like nuclear or carbon capture, from the conversation is short-sighted. Renewable electricity generation alone won’t get us there — this is an all-technologies-on-deck problem. I fear that magical thinking and purity tests are taking hold in parts of the left end of the American political spectrum, while parts of the political right are guilty of outright denialism around the climate problem. In the face of such stark polarization, the focus on practical solutions can get lost — and practicality and ingenuity are the renewable resources humanity needs to meet the climate challenge.

Correction: An earlier version of a graphic in this piece mistakenly indicated that renewables comprise 0.6% of global electricity generation. It has been corrected to 9.3%.

About the Author

Samantha gross, related content.

Why we still use fossil fuels

How is the COVID-19 pandemic affecting global energy markets?

The United States can take climate change seriously while leading the world in oil and gas production

Brookings experts comment on oil market developments and geopolitical tensions

Will investments in greener energy be yet another victim of the coronavirus?

Acknowledgments.

Editorial: Jeff Ball, Bruce Jones, Anna Newbyu

Research: Historical summaries of energy transitions owe a debt of gratitude to Vaclav Smil, a prolific author on the topic and the grandfather of big-picture thinking on energy transitions.

Graphics and design: Ian McAllister, Rachel Slattery

Web development: Eric Abalahin, Abigail Kaunda, Rachel Slattery

Feature image: Egorov Artem/Shutterstock

Media Relations
Terms and Conditions
Privacy Policy

Search Search Please fill out this field.

Public Transportation

Auto industry, new jobs and freelancers, the bottom line.

Futures and Commodities Trading
Strategy & Education

How Gas Prices Affect the Economy

Thomas J Catalano is a CFP and Registered Investment Adviser with the state of South Carolina, where he launched his own financial advisory firm in 2018. Thomas' experience gives him expertise in a variety of areas including investments, retirement, insurance, and financial planning.

Yarilet Perez is an experienced multimedia journalist and fact-checker with a Master of Science in Journalism. She has worked in multiple cities covering breaking news, politics, education, and more. Her expertise is in personal finance and investing, and real estate.

Volatile gas prices have taken center stage in the media as the national average for a gallon of regular gasoline has experienced wild price swings over the past few years.

In the past, geopolitical tensions, hurricane seasons, flooding in the Mississippi, and increased travel demand during the summer driving season were forces pushing prices higher. At the individual level, higher gas prices mean that each of us pays more at the pump , leaving less to spend on other goods and services. But higher gas prices affect more than just the cost to fill up at the gas station; higher gas prices have an effect on the broader economy.

Inversely, when gas prices fall, it is cheaper to fill up the tank for both households and businesses and really eases costs on transportation-focused industries like airlines and trucking—but it also puts a damper on the domestic oil industry.

In general, higher oil prices are a drag on the economy. Here we will focus on some of the direct and indirect negative effects of high gas prices.

Key Takeaways

When gas prices rise, it can be a drag on the economy—impacting everything from consumer spending to the price of airline tickets to hiring practices.
Gas is an important input for transportation, which directly impacts households as they drive, but also businesses that rely on logistics and transportation chains around the globe.
If discretionary spending is hampered by higher gasoline costs, it can have knock-on effects throughout the broader economy.

A side effect of high gas prices is that the discretionary spending of consumers drops as they spend a relatively larger portion of their income on gasoline. Higher prices also mean that shoppers will tend to drive less—including places like the mall or shopping centers. Indeed, academic and industry studies provide support for this, showing that driving miles are directly tied to gas prices.

While shoppers may not drive, they do switch to online shopping more when gas prices rise. According to Marin Software, searches for online shopping increase dramatically along with an increase in gas prices.

However, all retailers are further squeezed as they are forced to pass on the higher expenses they also experience, which are associated with increased shipping costs to consumers. Anything that has to be shipped or transported—from apples to electronics—could cost more as gas prices rise. This is especially true for products, or components for products, that are manufactured overseas. Likewise, many products that contain plastics or synthetic materials are based in part on petroleum and refining. Higher oil prices mean higher prices for these materials too.

Higher gas prices can result in noticeable increases in some public transportation ridership. Shared and public transportation may become more appealing if gas prices continue to rise as it provides a more cost-effective alternative to sitting in traffic with expensive fuel in the tank.

As a historical example, according to the American Public Transportation Association, the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill region of North Carolina saw an 18% increase in riders for the express bus that connects the three cities during April 2011, compared to the same month in 2010—a period that saw gas prices rise sharply. Likewise, during the same period, riders on New Mexico's Rail Runner, a commuter train that provides service between Santa Fe and Albuquerque, increased by 14%.

Not all commuters have the flexibility to make this decision, but for some, it has provided a welcome opportunity to save on weekly commuting expenses .

The automobile industry has historically responded to rising gasoline prices by using these periods as opportunities to manufacture smaller, more fuel-efficient cars, such as hybrids and, most recently, all-electric cars that can travel up to 250 miles between charges. Consumers have largely supported this move; sales of hybrids and all-electric vehicles in the United States have been on a strong upward trajectory since 2010, while sales of gas guzzlers like large trucks and SUVs have lagged behind.

The largest operating cost for airlines, on average, are the companies' fuel expenses and those expenses related to the procurement of oil. Fuel costs are such a large part of an airline's overhead percentage-wise that the fluctuating price of oil greatly affects the airline's bottom line . When gas prices rise, airlines are forced to increase the price offered to travelers for flights, which may discourage non-essential air travel and put a further burden on consumers' wallets.

To protect themselves from volatile oil costs, and sometimes to even take advantage of rising gas prices, airlines commonly engage in the practice of fuel hedging . They do this by buying or selling the expected future price of oil through a range of investment products , protecting the airline companies against rising prices.

Job growth is carefully watched as an indicator of the recovering economy. And some economists warn that rising gas prices could negatively impact an economic recovery in terms of hiring practices. Rising gas prices may force some businesses to re-evaluate their hiring plans, holding off because they are uncertain about the economy's health. Less discretionary spending results in decreased sales, both of which can influence a company's ability to hire.

Many job candidates have to weigh prospective positions against the costs associated with the commute. Some workers who have been offered new jobs have been forced to turn down the position simply because the costs to get to and from work would eat up such a large percentage of the salary. Freelancers can also be affected by higher gas prices, limiting the geographical region in which they will do business because commuting costs make it impossible for some gigs to be profitable.

Though economists and analysts may argue about the extent to which gas prices have an effect on the economy, there is, at the least, a correlation between consumer confidence , spending habits, and gas prices. An August 2020 Gallup poll in the United States, for example, showed that individuals' views of the economy appear to be inversely correlated to the price of gasoline. The poll showed that increases in state gas prices made respondents feel more pessimistic about the economy over the time period in question.

Congressional Budget Office (CBO). " January 2008 Effects of Gasoline Prices on Driving Behavior and Vehicle Markets ."

Marin Software. " Marketing Insights: Higher Energy Prices Spell Dollar$ for Google? "

CNN Money. " Gas prices push commuters to the train ."

Bureau of Transportation Statistics. " Hybrid-Electric, Plug-in Hybrid-Electric and Electric Vehicle Sales ."

Gallup. " Gas Prices and Consumer Sentiment ."

Terms of Service
Editorial Policy
Privacy Policy
Your Privacy Choices

Home — Essay Samples — Life — Cars — Comparison Of Gas Cars And Electric Cars

Comparison of Gas Cars and Electric Cars

Categories: Automobile Cars Electric Car

About this sample

Words: 2482 |

13 min read

Published: Dec 3, 2020

Words: 2482 | Pages: 5 | 13 min read

Introduction, environment.

AAA Gas Prices. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://gasprices.aaa.com/.
Coughlin, J. F. (2005). Not your father's auto industry? aging, the automobile, and the.. Generations, Retrieved from https://explore.proquest.com/sirsissuesresearcher/document/2265446712?accountid=65025
Fears, D. (2018, Oct 22). For gulf oil spill, no end in sight. Washington Post Retrieved from https://explore.proquest.com/document/2265911290?accountid=65025
Healey, J. R. (2013, Jun 13). Electric cars vs. gas cars: Savings from plug-in can evaporate fast. USA TODAY Retrieved from https://explore.proquest.com/sirsissuesresearcher/document/2266072695?accountid=65025
Khan, A. (2017, Oct 16). Tracking carbon emissions from space. Los Angeles Times Retrieved from https://explore.proquest.com/sirsissuesresearcher/document/2266168736?accountid=65025
Kliesch, J. (2011, Feb). Why electric cars are cleaner. Mother Earth News,, 58. Retrieved from https://explore.proquest.com/sirsissuesresearcher/document/2262928816?accountid=6502
Marinelli, J. (1989, Nov). Global warming: Cars. Garbage, Retrieved from https://explore.proquest.com/sirsissuesresearcher/document/2267182695?accountid=65025
Pros and cons of electric cars. (2019, January 17). Retrieved from https://www.energysage.com/electric-vehicles/101/pros-and-cons-electric-cars/.
The8 Least Expensive New Cars You Can Buy Today. (2015, August). Retrieved from https://www.autotrader.com/best-cars/8-least-expensive-new-cars-you-can-buy-today-238919#subsection7.
Thompson, B. (2016, May 01). How will rising temperatures affect the world's workers? Christian Science Monitor Retrieved from https://explore.proquest.com/sirsissuesresearcher/document/2265790282?accountid=65025

Should follow an “upside down” triangle format, meaning, the writer should start off broad and introduce the text and author or topic being discussed, and then get more specific to the thesis statement.

Provides a foundational overview, outlining the historical context and introducing key information that will be further explored in the essay, setting the stage for the argument to follow.

Cornerstone of the essay, presenting the central argument that will be elaborated upon and supported with evidence and analysis throughout the rest of the paper.

The topic sentence serves as the main point or focus of a paragraph in an essay, summarizing the key idea that will be discussed in that paragraph.

The body of each paragraph builds an argument in support of the topic sentence, citing information from sources as evidence.

After each piece of evidence is provided, the author should explain HOW and WHY the evidence supports the claim.

Should follow a right side up triangle format, meaning, specifics should be mentioned first such as restating the thesis, and then get more broad about the topic at hand. Lastly, leave the reader with something to think about and ponder once they are done reading.

Cite this Essay

Let us write you an essay from scratch

450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

Prof Ernest (PhD)

Verified writer

Expert in: Science Life

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

2 pages / 882 words

2 pages / 704 words

7 pages / 2969 words

1 pages / 2726 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Comparison of Gas Cars and Electric Cars Essay

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on Cars

Twenty years ago, if someone told you that self-driving vehicles would be driving us around on our roads, you would not have believed it. However, now this innovation does not seem as implausible. An autonomous car, also [...]

The car of my dreams is a vehicle of the new generation that embodies ease of operation, power, safety, and impressive aesthetics. One of the most pressing concerns today is environmental friendliness, and I strongly share this [...]

Beauregard, R., & Parkhurst, H. (2017). The Impact of Automobiles on American Society: Introduction. Journal of Urban History, 43(3), 348-356.Cho, S., & Lee, H. (2019). The invention of the automobile and its effects on society [...]

The 1920s was a transformative decade for automobile technology and culture in the United States. The era saw a rapid increase in the popularity and availability of cars, as well as significant advancements in automotive [...]

We’ve all seen flying cars in plethora of science fiction movies and always wondered when would we be able to fly in those three-dimensional transport vehicles. Recently, accelerated technological advancement is turning many [...]

The topic I picked is future cars, like air and flying cars this car doesn’t run off oil like the cars we have now and plus the oil is getting in the air it’s unhealthy to breathe in you don’t have to spend money on gas no more [...]

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

Instructions Followed To The Letter
Deadlines Met At Every Stage
Unique And Plagiarism Free

Essay on Greenhouse Effect for Students and Children

500 words essay on greenhouse effect.

The past month, July of 2019, has been the hottest month in the records of human history. This means on a global scale, the average climate and temperatures are now seen a steady rise year-on-year. The culprits of this climate change phenomenon are mainly pollution , overpopulation and general disregard for the environment by the human race. However, we can specifically point to two phenomenons that contribute to the rising temperatures – global warming and the greenhouse effect. Let us see more about them in this essay on the greenhouse effect.

The earth’s surface is surrounded by an envelope of the air we call the atmosphere. Gasses in this atmosphere trap the infrared radiation of the sun which generates heat on the surface of the earth. In an ideal scenario, this effect causes the temperature on the earth to be around 15c. And without such a phenomenon life could not sustain on earth.

However, due to rapid industrialization and rising pollution, the emission of greenhouse gases has increased multifold over the last few centuries. This, in turn, causes more radiation to be trapped in the earth’s atmosphere. And as a consequence, the temperature on the surface of the planet steadily rises. This is what we refer to when we talk about the man-made greenhouse effect.

Causes of Greenhouse Effect

As we saw earlier in this essay on the greenhouse effect, the phenomenon itself is naturally occurring and an important one to sustain life on our planet. However, there is an anthropogenic part of this effect. This is caused due to the activities of man.

The most prominent among this is the burning of fossil fuels . Our industries, vehicles, factories, etc are overly reliant on fossil fuels for their energy and power. This has caused an immense increase in emissions of harmful greenhouse gasses such as carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, sulfides, etc. This has multiplied the greenhouse effect and we have seen a steady rise in surface temperatures.

Other harmful activities such as deforestation, excessive urbanization, harmful agricultural practices, etc. have also led to the release of excess carbon dioxide and made the greenhouse effect more prominent. Another harmful element that causes harm to the environment is CFC (chlorofluorocarbon).

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Some Effects of Greenhouse Effect

Even after overwhelming proof, there are still people who deny the existence of climate change and its devastating pitfalls. However, there are so many effects and pieces of evidence of climate change it is now undeniable. The surface temperature of the planet has risen by 1c since the 19th century. This change is largely due to the increased emissions of carbon dioxide. The most harm has been seen in the past 35 years in particular.

The oceans and the seas have absorbed a lot of this increased heat. The surfaces of these oceans have seen a rise in temperatures of 0.4c. The ice sheets and glaciers are also rapidly shrinking. The rate at which the ice caps melt in Antartica has tripled in the last decade itself. These alarming statistics and facts are proof of the major disaster we face in the form of climate change.

600 Words Essay on Greenhouse Effect

A Greenhouse , as the term suggests, is a structure made of glass which is designed to trap heat inside. Thus, even on cold chilling winter days, there is warmth inside it. Similarly, Earth also traps energy from the Sun and prevents it from escaping back. The greenhouse gases or the molecules present in the atmosphere of the Earth trap the heat of the Sun. This is what we know as the Greenhouse effect.

Greenhouse Gases

These gases or molecules are naturally present in the atmosphere of the Earth. However, they are also released due to human activities. These gases play a vital role in trapping the heat of the Sun and thereby gradually warming the temperature of Earth. The Earth is habitable for humans due to the equilibrium of the energy it receives and the energy that it reflects back to space.

Global Warming and the Greenhouse Effect

The trapping and emission of radiation by the greenhouse gases present in the atmosphere is known as the Greenhouse effect. Without this process, Earth will either be very cold or very hot, which will make life impossible on Earth.

The greenhouse effect is a natural phenomenon. Due to wrong human activities such as clearing forests, burning fossil fuels, releasing industrial gas in the atmosphere, etc., the emission of greenhouse gases is increasing.

Thus, this has, in turn, resulted in global warming . We can see the effects due to these like extreme droughts, floods, hurricanes, landslides, rise in sea levels, etc. Global warming is adversely affecting our biodiversity, ecosystem and the life of the people. Also, the Himalayan glaciers are melting due to this.

There are broadly two causes of the greenhouse effect:

I. Natural Causes

Some components that are present on the Earth naturally produce greenhouse gases. For example, carbon dioxide is present in the oceans, decaying of plants due to forest fires and the manure of some animals produces methane , and nitrogen oxide is present in water and soil.
Water Vapour raises the temperature by absorbing energy when there is a rise in the humidity.
Humans and animals breathe oxygen and release carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

II. Man-made Causes

Burning of fossil fuels such as oil and coal emits carbon dioxide in the atmosphere which causes an excessive greenhouse effect. Also, while digging a coal mine or an oil well, methane is released from the Earth, which pollutes it.
Trees with the help of the process of photosynthesis absorb the carbon dioxide and release oxygen. Due to deforestation the carbon dioxide level is continuously increasing. This is also a major cause of the increase in the greenhouse effect.
In order to get maximum yield, the farmers use artificial nitrogen in their fields. This releases nitrogen oxide in the atmosphere.
Industries release harmful gases in the atmosphere like methane, carbon dioxide , and fluorine gas. These also enhance global warming.

All the countries of the world are facing the ill effects of global warming. The Government and non-governmental organizations need to take appropriate and concrete measures to control the emission of toxic greenhouse gases. They need to promote the greater use of renewable energy and forestation. Also, it is the duty of every individual to protect the environment and not use such means that harm the atmosphere. It is the need of the hour to protect our environment else that day is not far away when life on Earth will also become difficult.

Customize your course in 30 seconds

Which class are you in.

Travelling Essay
Picnic Essay
Our Country Essay
My Parents Essay
Essay on Favourite Personality
Essay on Memorable Day of My Life
Essay on Knowledge is Power
Essay on Gurpurab
Essay on My Favourite Season
Essay on Types of Sports

Download the App

Share full article

Electric Cars Are Better for the Planet – and Often Your Budget, Too

By Veronica Penney Jan. 15, 2021

Electric vehicles are better for the climate than gas-powered cars, but many Americans are still reluctant to buy them. One reason: The larger upfront cost.

New data published Thursday shows that despite the higher sticker price, electric cars may actually save drivers money in the long-run.

To reach this conclusion, a team at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology calculated both the carbon dioxide emissions and full lifetime cost — including purchase price, maintenance and fuel — for nearly every new car model on the market.

They found electric cars were easily more climate friendly than gas-burning ones. Over a lifetime, they were often cheaper, too.

Average carbon dioxide emissions per mile

Toyota Sequoia

Diesel cars

Traditional gas-powered cars span a range of prices and emissions.

Hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles are about the same price as traditional cars, but cut emissions roughly in half.

Honda Civic

Higher emissions

Nissan Leaf

Electric cars have the lowest cost and emissions over time.

Higher cost

Average cost per month

Purchase price, maintenance, fuel

Hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles

Electric cars have the lowest cost and emissions over time .

Climate scientists say vehicle electrification is one of the best ways to reduce planet-warming greenhouse gas emissions. In the United States, the transportation sector is the largest source of emissions, most of which come from cars and trucks .

Jessika Trancik, an associate professor of energy studies at M.I.T. who led the research, said she hoped the data would “help people learn about how those upfront costs are spread over the lifetime of the car.”

For electric cars, lower maintenance costs and the lower costs of charging compared with gasoline prices tend to offset the higher upfront price over time. (Battery-electric engines have fewer moving parts that can break compared with gas-powered engines and they don’t require oil changes. Electric vehicles also use regenerative braking, which reduces wear and tear.)

The cars are greener over time, too, despite the more emissions-intensive battery manufacturing process. Dr. Trancik estimates that an electric vehicle’s production emissions would be offset in anywhere from six to 18 months, depending on how clean the energy grid is where the car is charging.

The new data showed hybrid cars, which run on a combination of fuel and battery power, and can sometimes be plugged in, had more mixed results for both emissions and costs. Some hybrids were cheaper and spewed less planet-warming carbon dioxide than regular cars, but others were in the same emissions and cost range as gas-only vehicles.

Traditional gas-burning cars were usually the least climate friendly option, though long-term costs and emissions spanned a wide range. Compact cars were usually cheaper and more efficient, while gas-powered SUVs and luxury sedans landed on the opposite end of the spectrum.

Dr. Trancik’s team released the data in an interactive online tool to help people quantify the true costs of their car-buying decisions — both for the planet and their budget. The new estimates update a study published in 2016 and add to a growing body of research underscoring the potential lifetime savings of electric cars.

Comparing individual cars can be useful — and sometimes surprising .

Toyota RAV4 XLE

Retail: $27,450

Average carbon dioxide

emissions per mile

Nissan Altima

Retail: $26,800

The hybrid is cheaper and has lower emissions over time, despite the higher price tag.

Toyota RAV4 LE Hybrid

Retail: $28,500

The electric Tesla and gas- powered Nissan end up costing about the same over time.

Tesla Model 3

Retail: $37,990

The electric Tesla and gas- powered Nissan end up costing about the same.

Take the Tesla Model 3, the most popular electric car in the United States. The M.I.T. team estimated the lifetime cost of the most basic model as comparable to a Nissan Altima that sells for $11,000 less upfront. (That’s even though Tesla’s federal tax incentive for electric vehicles has ended.)

Toyota’s Hybrid RAV4 S.U.V. also ends up cheaper in the long run than a similar traditional RAV4, a national bestseller, despite a higher retail price.

The charts above use nationwide average prices for gasoline and electricity to estimate lifetime costs, but the results may shift depending on where potential buyers live. (The interactive tool allows users to input their local rates.)

Hawaii, Alaska and parts of New England have some of the highest average electricity costs , while parts of the Midwest, West and South tend to have lower rates. Gas prices are lower along the Gulf Coast and higher in California. But an analysis from the Union of Concerned Scientists still found that charging a vehicle was more cost effective than filling up at the pump across 50 major American cities. “We saw potential savings everywhere,” said David Reichmuth, a senior engineer for the group’s Clean Transportation Program.

Still, the upfront cost of an electric vehicle continues to be a barrier for many would-be owners.

The federal government offers a tax credit for some new electric vehicle purchases, but that does nothing to reduce the initial purchase price and does not apply to used cars. That means it disproportionately benefits wealthier Americans. Some states, like California, offer additional incentives. President-elect Joseph R. Biden Jr. has pledged to offer rebates that help consumers swap inefficient, old cars for cleaner new ones, and to create 500,000 more electric vehicle charging stations, too.

Chris Gearhart, director of the Center for Integrated Mobility Sciences at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, said electric cars will become more price competitive in coming years as battery prices drop. At the same time, new technologies to reduce exhaust emissions are making traditional cars more expensive. “With that trajectory, you can imagine that even immediately at the purchase price level, certain smaller sedans could reach purchase price parity in the next couple of years,” Dr. Gearhart said.

Gas Cars vs.Electric Cars Essay: Compare & Contrast

Need to write an electric cars benefits essay or an electric cars vs. gas cars compare and contrast paper? Then make sure to read this sample for inspiration!

Introduction

Similarities between electric & gas cars, differences between electric & gas cars, electric cars: advantages, fuel cars: advantages, conclusion: electric cars vs. gas cars, electric cars vs. gas cars faq.

There has been a lot of development in the car industry, especially if comparing the current achievements to the first car models in the 19th century. Many people believe that electric cars are the future as they have numerous environmental and health benefits. Others think that electric cars are bad and gas cars cannot be replaced.

The reasons for the newest modifications also include environmental issues and the cost of gas. Gas- and diesel-powered cars are getting more of a luxurious item than ever before. Therefore, people have started looking for alternative power solutions.

Through trial and error, developers could come up with the idea of electric cars. Today, all the most notable car brands have their electric car model. The variety of choices can be confusing for the potential buyer, however.

It leads us to the purpose of this compare and contrast essay on electric cars vs. gas cars. Similarities and differences between them are discussed in the first two parts. Then, the advantages of each type of car are presented separately. The conclusion reveals the outcome of this battle.

Electric and gas cars look the same on the outside. Even though the models vary from brand to brand, a newbie probably will not know the difference between electric and gas cars.

Both types are shaped to resist the wind, which is common sense in the car industry. Also, they share standard features like mirrors and indicators as they are the universal parts of all cars. It also includes the wheel, pedals, and car seats.

Besides, it is quite evident that both electric and gasoline cars serve the same purpose, transporting passengers and goods. Moreover, the general interior features would also be similar.

Furthermore, there are only a few differences in how the owner can tune his car. Just like washing both vehicles would be quite the same.

However, this is where the similarities between electric and gas cars end. The engines, the way they are powered, and all the related processes are entirely different. It is even easy to distinguish an electric car from the gas one by sound.

Therefore, if the way the car works does not matter to the owners, they would only notice the difference in general maintenance. However, as soon as it comes to the inside of the car, there is minimal resemblance.

First, it is evident from the name that electric cars are powered by electricity, and gas cars need gasoline to work. Next, let us move to the engine. One of the most amazing things about electric vehicles is that they have the motor as the only big moving part.

There is a pack of rechargeable batteries inside it, which powers the motor. In turn, it powers the drive train, and it causes the car to move. Gas cars, on the other hand, need combustion engines for that. Fuel or diesel is burnt inside, providing enough power to start the engine.

Gas cars have a fuel tank hidden in the back behind the seat. In electric vehicles, there is a set of batteries installed. Therefore, instead of filling the tank with gasoline, an owner would need to top off the battery in the electric vehicle.

There are fewer moving parts in electric cars too. It also means that their owners face fewer issues with maintenance. The engine of the gas car is amazingly complex, not to mention all the other parts needed to make power out of fuel.

Last but not least, electric cars do not leave a trace of emissions on the roads. Unlike gas-powered vehicles, they do not have a tailpipe because it is unnecessary. However, there is a recharge socket on the body of the car. Its place depends on where the batteries are located.

Now, let us check the advantages of electric vehicles compared to standard gas cars. This part of the essay would benefit those considering purchasing a car soon.

Efficiency related to energy might be one of the best benefits of electric cars. Sixty percent of all the energy contained by the set of batteries goes to powering the wheels. On the other hand, gas cars only convert 20 percent of the energy that comes from fuel to run the wheels.

Another top advantage of electric cars is that they are environmentally friendly. This topic is so popular now, not only because eco-friendly stuff is trendy. It is a significant concern for the whole population of our planet. Switching to options that do not harm our ecosystem is a matter of survival, not fashion.

Unlike their fuel-powered counterparts, electric cars do not produce any emissions. However, there is a trick. If they are charged from a generator, there may be some concerns about how eco-friendly it is. However, if the power used for charging derives from wind or solar plants, the whole process is 100 percent clean.

Electric cars are also considered to be more comfortable and pleasant with a bonus of surplus performance. They are much quieter and drive smoother than their gas-powered relatives. Another pleasantly surprising feature is that their acceleration rate is extreme.

Another excellent addition to owning an electric car is that the maintenance of these cars is much cheaper, thanks to the small number of moving parts. Moreover, owners of electric vehicles can be proud of significantly reduced energy dependence.

Since the invention of cars, people have had to rely on a low number of energy sources. A simple shortage of oil can shut down a big chunk of transportation. Moreover, it is not just an assumption but our foreseeable future. Electric vehicles and hydrogen fuel-cell cars are here to secure the transportation industry.

Despite all the benefits of electric cars, internal combustion engines have significant advantages against them. One of the main reasons that probably keeps people away from buying electric vehicles is their driving range.

With the full tank, a gas vehicle can go about 300 miles before being refilled. On the other hand, fully charged electric vehicles can only travel 100-200 miles without an additional recharge.

Therefore, fuel-powered cars are more reliable in terms of going for long-distance travel. Moreover, some remote areas do not necessarily guarantee a regular electricity supply. For instance, going for a road trip in Iceland or a safari in Africa on an electric car might not be 100 percent safe.

Advantage number two is that refilling a gas car is much faster than charging an electric one. It might take a long time for the latter, depending on the vehicle type and the charging speed. It could take somewhat from 30 minutes to 12 hours.

Tesla cars were supposed to have a speed-up feature on the development day. They were promising that it would also be possible to change the battery pack in a few minutes at the charging points. However, it would cost quite a lot. The project ended up being closed.

In contrast, you only need to stop for about 5 minutes at the gas station to fill the car with gas. Moreover, there are many more gas stations around the country than charging points. In case of an emergency, carrying a heavy and large battery pack that provides driving power for electric cars is not the most pleasant thing.

The last point is that fuel-powered cars are much more common everywhere than electric vehicles. Therefore, finding a replacement for any damaged part is not a big challenge. It is not the case with electric cars, especially in places where they are not so popular yet.

This essay on electric cars vs. fuel cars discussed the similarities and differences between them. After that, the unique strengths and weak points of both types of vehicles were highlighted.

The cars may look alike outside, but the engines and everything inside are drastically different. Electric cars are cheaper and more efficient in maintenance. Besides, they do not harm the environment. On the other hand, fuel cars are better for long distances and faster to refill.

The conclusion of the electric cars essay is that fuel cars appear to have fewer strengths. However, it might take time for electric vehicles to become more common so that recharging and maintenance issues would be solved.

What are the differences between electric cars and gas cars?

There are many differences between electric cars and gas cars. The main one is the way they are powered. Electric cars have fewer parts that are moving. The motor is the only one. Fuel-powered cars, on the other hand, have a very complex system. Look how complicated the engine is. It creates a difference in maintenance too.

Which is better: electric or gas cars?

It is hard to tell whether electric or gas cars are better. It all depends on how popular electric cars are in a specific location. From the perspective of maintenance and efficiency, they can easily beat gas cars. However, there should be enough charging points. So, owning an electric car can be troublesome if the infrastructure is not developed.

Which is faster: electric or gas cars?

Generally speaking, gas cars are faster than electric cars. However, the latter ones accelerate way much quicker because there is no need for the usual transition. Also, an electric vehicle can reach your destination point faster than a gas one. However, for now, its top speed is lower than the standard fuel-powered vehicles can reach.

What are the disadvantages of an electric car?

There are some disadvantages to an electric car that reduce its efficiency. The main one is the range. They can travel for distances twice shorter than the usual gas vehicles. The next weak point is the time it takes to recharge. Depending on the charging point and the type of battery, it can take up to 12 hours.

Are electric cars unsafe?

Just a few aspects can prove that electric cars are safe. They might be safer than the usual fuel-powered vehicles. First thing first, gas cars need gas to run. That makes sense, right? But gasoline and diesel are highly flammable substances which make them quite dangerous. Also, electric vehicles have fewer parts, so they wear out less frequently.

Fueleconomy.gov. n.d. All-Electric Vehicles. [online]

Afdc.energy.gov. n.d. Alternative Fuels Data Center: How Do All-Electric Cars Work?. [online]

The Economist. 2020. Wireless Charging Of Electric Cars Looks Increasingly Promising. [online]

Energy.gov. n.d. Electric Vehicle Benefits. [online]

EECA Business. 2019. Benefits And Considerations Of Electric Vehicles. [online]

Fueleconomy.gov. n.d. Fuel Cell Vehicles – Benefits And Challenges. [online]

Wynn, G., 2010. Gasoline Still Has Some Advantages As Fuel. [online] Nytimes.com.

Kanellos, M., 2012. Which Are Better: Electric Cars Or Natural Gas Vehicles?. [online] Forbes. Web.

Cite this paper

Chicago (N-B)
Chicago (A-D)

StudyCorgi. (2020, July 8). Gas Cars vs.Electric Cars Essay: Compare & Contrast. https://studycorgi.com/electric-cars-vs-gas-cars-compare-contrast-essay/

"Gas Cars vs.Electric Cars Essay: Compare & Contrast." StudyCorgi , 8 July 2020, studycorgi.com/electric-cars-vs-gas-cars-compare-contrast-essay/.

StudyCorgi . (2020) 'Gas Cars vs.Electric Cars Essay: Compare & Contrast'. 8 July.

1. StudyCorgi . "Gas Cars vs.Electric Cars Essay: Compare & Contrast." July 8, 2020. https://studycorgi.com/electric-cars-vs-gas-cars-compare-contrast-essay/.

Bibliography

StudyCorgi . "Gas Cars vs.Electric Cars Essay: Compare & Contrast." July 8, 2020. https://studycorgi.com/electric-cars-vs-gas-cars-compare-contrast-essay/.

StudyCorgi . 2020. "Gas Cars vs.Electric Cars Essay: Compare & Contrast." July 8, 2020. https://studycorgi.com/electric-cars-vs-gas-cars-compare-contrast-essay/.

This paper, “Gas Cars vs.Electric Cars Essay: Compare & Contrast”, was written and voluntary submitted to our free essay database by a straight-A student. Please ensure you properly reference the paper if you're using it to write your assignment.

Before publication, the StudyCorgi editorial team proofread and checked the paper to make sure it meets the highest standards in terms of grammar, punctuation, style, fact accuracy, copyright issues, and inclusive language. Last updated: January 23, 2024 .

If you are the author of this paper and no longer wish to have it published on StudyCorgi, request the removal . Please use the “ Donate your paper ” form to submit an essay.

Your Article Library

Essay on natural gas.

ADVERTISEMENTS:

Read this essay to learn about Natural Gas. After reading this essay you will learn about: 1. Importance and Uses of Natural Gas 2. Reserves and Consumption of Natural Gas 3. Regions Producing.

Essay # Importance and Uses of Natural Gas :

During the late 1990s, among the different fossil fuels, natural gas has registered fastest growth in consumption. It now (2,000) contributes 23% of global commercial energy. Since 1975, production of natural gas has experienced a massive growth of 70%.

The major uses of natural gas are:

(a) It is widely used as fuel in industries and domestic cooking purposes.

(b) Petrochemical industry uses natural gas as fuel and raw material.

(c) Different industries, mostly chemical — artificial rubber, plastics, fertilizer, ink, carbon—use natural gas as raw material.

(d) Natural gas is sometimes used for artificial lighting.

Essay # Reserves and Consumption of Natural Gas :

Proven natural gas reserves has increased significantly in the 1990s: Russian Federation possesses one-third of the proven gas reserves of the world (48,160 billion cubic meters in 1993), followed by Iran (20,659 billion cubic metres), U.A.E. (5,794 billion cubic metres), Saudi Arabia (5,620 billion cubic metres), U.S.A. (4,593 billion cubic metres) etc.

As far as consumption of natural gas is concerned, U.S.A.is well ahead of other countries—consuming one-third of the world total. So, it is a deficient-producing country where bulk of the consumption is generally imported from Middle East countries. The other notable consumers of natural gas are Russia (20%), Germany, France, U.K. etc.

Essay # Regions Producing Natural Gas :

The natural gas producing nations are distributed in five geographical regions:

(a) American region:

U.S.A., Canada, Mexico, Venezuela etc.

(b) European region:

Russian Federation, U.K., France, Romania etc.

Leading producers are Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar etc.

(d) Far Eastern region:

Important producers are Bangladesh, Pakistan, Indonesia, Malaysia, India etc.

(e) African region:

Libya, Algeria, Egypt, Nigeria etc.

Secures second position in natural gas production, next only to Russia. In 2004, it produced 536,000 million m 3 natural gas. As far as reserves are concerned, U.S.A. secures fifth place, having 4,599 billion cubic metres of gas reserve. Much of the gas fields in U.S.A. are associated with crude oil fields within Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, New Mexico and California states.

A significant producer of natural gas, securing third place in the world. In 1995, it produced 6,137 pet joules of energy from natural gas. Canada has more than 2,500 billion cubic metres of gas reserve. The major gas-fields are situated at Alberta and British Columbia states.

More than 2,000 billion cubic metres of gas reserve. Most of its gas-fields are located within the Tampico and Tuxpum region.

(b) European region :

1. Russian Federation:

Russia is the undisputed world leader of natural gas production. In 2004, it produced 632,000 million m 3 natural gas.

Russia contains the largest reserves of natural gas—48,160 billion cubic metres, or one- third of the world.

Major gas-producing regions are:

(i) Black Sea region—Maikop, Berezanskoe, old gas fields, still produce huge amount.

(ii) Volga basin—Buguruslan, Verkhnie etc. produce both oil and gas.

(iii) Sakhalin islands—Tungor in Sakhalin is one of the greatest gas producing regions on the earth.

Besides these regions, Pechora Valley and Taz River Valley are other important gas-producing regions.

2. United Kingdom:

Of late, U.K. has emerged as a leading gas-producing country in Europe. Exploration of new oil and gas fields in the off-shore regions of North Sea enabled it to export sizable portions of its product.

1. Saudi Arabia:

Saudi Arabia holds 5,620 billion cubic metres of gas reserve—the fourth largest in the world. In 2004, it produced more than 64,000 million m 3 natural gas. Most of the natural gas here comes from oil-wells.

Iran possesses the second largest gas reserve in the world (20,659 billion cubic metres). In 2004, it produced 85,500 million m 3 gaseous fuel. Oil-fields in Iran produce the natural gas.

United Arab Emirates has the third largest gas reserve in the world (5,794 billion cubic metre). In 2004, it produced 45,800 million m 3 natural gas. Bu-Musa, A1 Bandus are the major gas-fields in U.A.E.

4. Other producers:

Qatar and Iraq are the other noted gas-producing countries in the world.

(d) African region :

In the African continent, Libya and Nigeria are two important gas-producing countries. It has been estimated that Algeria possesses more than 3,500 billion cubic metres of gas, mostly concentrated in and around Hassi Massaud area.

(e) Far Eastern Asia :

Bangladesh — in far East, is a leading gas-producing country. Here, huge natural gas reserves have been earmarked in the eastern hilly tracts.

Indonesia— is another leading gas-producing country where estimated reserve is around 2,000 billion cubic metres.

Pakistan — is a surplus gas-producing country. In near future, natural gas production may experience a big boost here.

India— possesses some amount of natural gas, mostly concentrated in Bombay High, Tripura, Gujarat and Assam oil-field areas.

Production and Distribution of Natural Gas around the World
Natural Gas of the World and their Uses (with statistical information)

Comments are closed.

Workers connect a pipeline over permafrost at a site in Novy Urengoy, Siberia.

The workers searching for gas in the icy Russian Arctic – a photo essay

Engineers and miners work short stints in the wretched Siberian cold to extract gas – Putin’s trump card against Europe. Photojournalist Justin Jin was granted unprecedented access during several visits over the last decade, and offers a rare close-up look

2022 – The Russian Arctic region, an area of 7,000 sq km atop the planet stretching from Finland to Alaska on which Moscow bureaucrats bestowed the name Zone of Absolute Discomfort, is wretched to live in, but just hospitable enough to allow for the extraction of resources trapped beneath it.

Gas extractors burn off excess condensate in the Russian Arctic tundra. The practice, called ‘flaring’, is harmful to the environment.

In recent decades, as scientists discover billions of tons of additional oil and gas trapped underneath the Arctic tundra, the Kremlin has commanded Russian energy companies to usurp these strategic resources.

Engineers and miners from around the world work short stints in the region, looking for natural wealth deposits several kilometres below the tundra. They come with expensive, sophisticated equipment and earn substantial sums for their hardship tours.

Workers drill for gas under the Russian Arctic permafronst at a site in Novy Urengoy, a city built by Gazprom in 1980s in Siberia to extract Russia’s biggest gas field.

Engineers work surrounded by ice at a gas-drilling site in Novy Urengoy.

Workers connect a pipeline on top of the permafronst at a site in Novy Urengoy, a city built by Gazprom in 1980s in Siberia to extract Russia’s biggest gas field.

Workers connecting gas pipes during the night; and spraying steam over operating pipelines to stop them freezing on a cold morning when the temperature dropped to -42C.

An overview of Novy Urengoi town in Yamal region, sub-Arctic Russia. The town is built in the 1950s to exploit some of the world’s largest gas fields.

An overview of Novy Urengoi, a city built by Gazprom in the 1980s to exploit some of the world’s largest gas fields.

The Ice City in Novy Urengoy.

When I was living in Moscow in 2009, the former Guardian journalist Tom Parfitt and I took a train towards the north pole for an adventure. The landscape grew desolate as the train headed towards darkness during the 40-hour journey; the trees shrank, and then disappeared all together when we reach the end of the line.

Unused to the polar cold, I was knocked over by a snow blizzard, my knees buckling under the weight of my backpack that I could not lift across the snow. I screamed with pain as frostbite attacked my fingers and toes; it was later I realised that numbness was far worse.

Oil and gas company Bashneft arrives with their workers and containers (left, in blue) after a previous attempt by another exploration company was abandoned (on the right, covered in snow). Bashneft plans to build a gas well here in the Nenets Autonomous Region in the Russian Arctic.

Bashneft, an oil and gas company, arrives with its workers and containers (left, in blue) after an attempt by a rival exploration firm was abandoned (right, covered in snow). Bashneft plans to build a gas well here in the Nenets autonomous region.

One day, while trudging through the snow, I stumbled on the edge of town upon rows and rows of white containers, which appeared grey under the piles of snow. Inside, geologists, truck drivers and technicians plotted the day’s search for natural gas. I entered uninvited.

Geo-physics company “Siesmorevzedka” sets up a colony in the middle of the tundra in the Nenets Autonomous region, hundreds of kilometres from civilization, to prospect for oil and gas.

A colony is set up in the tundra, hundreds of kilometres from civilisation, to prospect for oil and gas; lightbulbs are delivered to a colony drilling outpost; the cooks are the only females on site and typically stay for the entire winter.

Sitting at the end of this corridor of joined-up containers, 58-year-old Igor commanded 100 men by phone and walkie talkie in search of the gaseous treasure. His company used trucks fitted with seismic radar to scan the Earth’s crust for fossil deposits. They are the frontline explorers, the wild north pioneers.

Igor, a stern, chain-smoking boss, must have felt sorry for me when I knocked on his cubicle door. A lone foreigner, struggling with Russian, covered in snow, I looked and felt miserable. He offered me tea, and I asked if I could follow and photograph his men in search of gas.

“If you really want,” Igor said, without expression. “Our snow truck leaves tonight for a gas field an eight-hour drive away. There is a spare seat, but don’t expect any sleep”.

A boxy orange vehicle with doughnut wheels taller than me took us bouncing across the tundra to an ungodly cold and dark patch of nowhere. All around you could hear the sound of hissing, then loud whirls, as workers sprayed the gas tanks with hot steam to prevent them from freezing.

My real journey into the Arctic had begun.

A colony of tents, or “chums”, belonging to Nenets herders stand in the Arctic tundra in the Russian Nenets Autonomous Region. The are the original people living in the Russian Arctic, before being crushed by Soviet collectivisation and affected by modern oil and gas exploration.

Tents, or ‘chums’, belonging to Nentsi herders stand in the Arctic tundra.

A Nenets herder collects his reindeers in -40C (-40F) in the Arctic tundra outside in the Russian Nenets Autonomous Region. They are the original inhabitants in the Russian Arctic before being displaced by Soviet collectivisation and modern gas and oil exploration. The herders sell the meat to sausage factories and the antlers to China for use as traditional medicine.

A Nentsi herder rounds up his reindeer in -40C conditions. The reindeer meat is sold to sausage factories; the antlers to China for use as a traditional medicine.

Workers test a gas drilling site in Arctic RussiaA gas drilling facility at the Kumzhinskoe gas field, located in the delta of Pechora River, 60 km from Narjan-Mar city in Russia’s Nenets Autonomous Region. In 1979, an explosion in one of the wells caused an uncontrolled gas fountain, with the condensate polluting huge areas of the tundra around, including the Pechora River. In May 25, 1981, the Soviets tried to collapse the field with an underground nuclear explosion at 1470 m depth. The explosion went wrong, causing even more damage and pollution. After that the field was closed and the area marked a nature reserve. Recently, more gas was found in the area. In 2007, then-President Vladimir Putin signed a decree demarcating the area from the nature reserve so that drilling work can resume. Environmentalists condemn this, saying the project too prone to further accidents in a delicate environment.

Workers test a drilling rig at a gas field in the delta of the Pechora river, 37 miles from Naryan-Mar city. In 1979, an explosion in one of the wells polluted the surrounding tundra, including the Pechora river. After another explosion it closed in 1981, was designated a nature reserve, a status removed in 2007 by decree so drilling for newly discovered gas could resume, a move condemned by environmentalists.

In this region, contrasting ways of life simultaneously exploit resources amid the world’s harshest conditions. For hundreds of years, this part of the Russian Arctic was home only to the Nenets, who raise reindeer for meat and have benefited from an uptick in demand for antlers, which are now sold as an aphrodisiac in China.

Every winter, workers build ice roads in the tundra to serve gas and oil companies exploring in the Nenets Autonomous Region in the Russian Arctic; and every summer, the roads melt away into the marshland.

Every winter, workers build ice roads in the tundra to serve gas and oil companies; and every summer, the roads melt away into marshland.

When the Soviet government tried to force these nomads into collective farms, some were re-settled in apartment blocks, abruptly altering their way of life. Mounted jet aircraft stand sentry over cities used and abused by the Soviet government, and descendants of Stalin’s prisons populate the streets.

A WWII monument stands above Murmansk, the world’s largest Arctic city and a vital industrial and shipping hub. The city became an important military base during the Cold War with Finland and Norway just across the border.

A war monument stands above Murmansk, the world’s largest Arctic city and a vital industrial and shipping hub. Close to the borders of Finland and Norway, the city became an important military base during the cold war.

Though the gulags were abandoned in the 1950s after Stalin’s death, many former inmates chose to stay. The Soviet government built housing blocks and communities for those who worked in the mines, and used high salaries to attract newcomers. The area boomed, for a while, but the regime scarred the once-pristine land with giant sinkholes and pollutants.

Vorkuta is a coalmining and former gulag town 1,200 miles north-east of Moscow, beyond the Arctic Circle, where winter temperatures drop to -50C. Here, whole villages are being slowly deserted and reclaimed by snow, while financial difficulties squeeze mining companies that already struggle to find workers.

In this apartment block on the edge of the tundra outside Vorkuta town, only one family is left. Buildings around Vorkuta are being surrendered to the Arctic elements as people flee to the south of Russia, unleashing a massive depopulation crisis. Vorkuta is a coal mining and former Gulag town 1,200 miles north east of Moscow, beyond the Arctic Circle, where temperatures in winter drop to -50C. Here, whole villages are being slowly deserted and reclaimed by snow, while the financial crisis is squeezing coal mining companies that already struggle to find workers.

Only one family is left living in this apartment block on the edge of Vorkuta.

Nina Merzlikina, 75, and Sergei Kostenko, 45, have packed up their belongings at this apartment in Vorkuta, waiting to be evicted. Local officials want to close the village on the city outskirts, so they can shut off supplies of gas and electricity.

Nina Merzlikina, 75, and Sergei Kostenko, 45, have packed up their belongings at their apartment in Vorkuta as they wait to be evicted. Local officials want to close the village on the city outskirts so that they can shut off its supply of gas and electricity.

When the Soviet Union collapsed, mines and factories closed, blighting a generation in the Arctic region with poverty and alcoholism. Many fled to seek a future; those who chose to stay often don’t work, age rapidly and die young.

Reindeer herder Simyon travels by sled from his chum towards Vorkuta to buy supplies. Construction of gas pipelines and industrial complexes is threatening the herders’ way of life, forcing them to travel further afield in search of pastures. Vorkuta is a coal mining and former Gulag town 1,200 miles north east of Moscow, beyond the Arctic Circle, where temperatures in winter drop to -50C. Here, whole villages are being slowly deserted and reclaimed by snow, while the financial crisis is squeezing coal mining companies that already struggle to find workers.

Simyon, a reindeer herder, travels by sled from his chum towards Vorkuta to buy supplies; Karp, a coalminer, walks through Yor Shor, an abandoned village near Vorkuta, where he is among the last 10 inhabitants.

Valery, a miner and union representative in Severny village outside Vorkuta, is comforted by his lover Lena. Vorkuta is a coal mining and former Gulag town 1,200 miles north east of Moscow, beyond the Arctic Circle, where temperatures in winter drop to -50C.

Valery, a miner and union representative in Severny village outside Vorkuta, is comforted by his partner, Lena.

The Russian government is again conquering the far north to stake its dominance.

This crucial period fascinates me so much that I have been back to the Arctic and Siberian region 10 times in the last decade, each time getting to know more of the story and pushing my body and my cameras to their limits.

The world’s most northerly oil terminal (according to the Guinness Book of Records). The LUKoil terminal, off Russia’s Arctic shore, serves tankers using the Arctic route between Europe and Asia, and is another step in Russia’s push towards the North Pole. The two boats are ice-breakers working round-the-clock.

The Lukoil terminal, off Russia’s Arctic shore, is the world’s most northerly oil terminal, according to Guinness World Records. It serves tankers using the Arctic route between Europe and Asia, and is another step in Russia’s push towards the north pole. The two ships are ice-breakers that work around the clock.

A Lukoil worker repairs a leaking pipe in the Komi region.

From that first day meeting Igor, I have got to know the Arctic and its people well and learned to capture its essence through photography.

The Russian military have granted me unprecedented access to photograph strategic zones, energy companies commission me to photograph their technology, and Igor no longer sees me as that lost foreigner who came to the Arctic without a plan.

They know I’m now here to depict energy politics’ coldest battle front.

The Portovaya compressor station compresses Russian gas before it is piped across the Baltic Sea bed to supply energy to Europe. Natural gas from much of Russia arrives at this Gazprom station. It’s the last stop between Russia and Europe, and a strategic site for Moscow’s gas diplomacy.

Gazprom’s Portovaya compressor station prepares Russian gas before it is piped under the Baltic Sea to Europe. Natural gas from much of Russia arrives at this hub. It is the last stop between Russia and Europe, and a strategic site for Moscow’s gas diplomacy.

The Guardian picture essay
Oil and gas companies
Energy industry

Most viewed

Argumentative Essay: The Future Of Gas Cars

Gasoline and diesel are fossil fuels and aren 't infinite. Battery electricity are better, they don’t pollute and don 't burn fossil fuels. Instead of having a gas tank and having to fill it up at a gas station, these cars have batteries in their place and can be recharged with a larger charging station and needs 220 volts. The recharged batteries stay charged until the car is driven. Some people say that battery powered cars are slower, but it isn’t by much and battery powered cars think is worth slowing down a little if it means saving the planet. Most electrical powered cars can last around 50 miles before needing to be recharged. No Matter what people will not change because they are stubborn so I hope there is a low against gas cars. …show more content…

Some cities in china have everyone wear gas masks when they go outside. That 's just tragic! Can you imagine getting lung cancer for standing outside for 10 minutes? Cars can release 2 different kinds of pollution. There is primary pollution that goes straight into the air to pollute it and secondary pollution. this occurs when pollutants in the air have a chemical reaction. This is very effective against the atmosphere. But if we all use different sources like battery powered cars ten we could use our limited supply of fossil fuels for other more important things, or just leave it alone. Not only is there battery powered cars, but we also have wind powered cars. These could be very important, and you can’t tell me this isn’t really cool! One problem I came across was that some of these cars with solar panels and wind collectors is that they are expensive. Gasoline and fossil fuels are very cheap and abundant. I have decided that because some people can’t afford these specialties, it would be a good start if just people with some money they could spend money on this because it is like an investment. It is more expensive at the start but after you buy it it is free, so after a while you would have payed more total on gas then if you just bought a solar

Persuasive Essay On Rhode Island College

In 2017 we’re still destroying the planet by using fossil fuel, creating more carbon dioxide, by burning oil, coal and gas. This causes a huge problem in today's world if we keep using the process of burning fossils as a form of electricity, gas etc.. we will end up destroying the planet we live on. By Rhode Island College creating a 5-10 year plan I believe we can be completely running on energy created by solar panels.

Muscle Car History

The first ever Hybrid car was created in 1900 known as the Lohner-Porsche, a car named after its designer German Ferdinand Porsche (Woodford). It wasn’t until 1997 that the first ever model was officially commercially invented and launched in Japan becoming a best-seller. From there engineers began producing models powered by gasoline and batteries, using less gasoline, all the while raising the fuel economy (Nakaya). Though the car does let out less emission, this factor raises prices by about twenty to thirty percent higher than gasoline cars and lowered performance rates. In more recent times, the year 2013 brought about the car company Toyota’s decision to sell more than five million hybrids all over the world, the US selling two million itself.

Asthma Air Pollution

Define a problem associated with our energy use (from mining coal to burning coal, for example). Did you know that the average american breaths in about 3,400 gallons of air pollution each day (1)? Thats gross right imagine what that is doing to your body and the affects it could have on you and this is a huge problem that all around the world is facing and the consequences. One problem associated with our energy use is the effect on human health from air pollution from vehicles to coal power plants.

Persuasive Speech On Electric Cars

This is all because of global warming, and if we start switching to electric cars, we could make a big difference and maybe, just maybe the effects of global warming will decrease. If they don’t, sea-levels could rise and flood certain areas of the world. Secondly, electric cars, ironically, use less energy than gas cars to move

Essay On Electric Cars

Companies like Nissan and Tesla offer great electric models with an outstanding amount of benefits for people who decide to invest. You’ll be saving not only yourself, but also your family a huge amount of money. The downside to Electric cars is the fact that these cars are limited by distance and speed. Most of these can only travel up to about 50 to 100 miles without being charged. You just can’t use them for long distant travel as of now, although it is expected to improve in future.

Persuasive Essay On Electric Cars

The following statistics are for traveling 100 kilometers: According to a recent EU study, by 2020, only 26 megajoules of energy will be used to get petrol out of the ground and transported to the car, but a petrol car will use 152 megajoules of energy to move itself around. 74 megajoules of energy will be used to generate electricity and transport it to the car, but an electric car will only use 38 megajoules of energy to move itself around. You’re not only helping the environment, but you’re saving energy too! Electric cars already use less energy, and that is never going to

Persuasive Speech: Why Electric Cars Are The Future

“Why Electric Cars are the Future” Introduction Attention Getter: It was Sunday at park, two college students were discussing about cars. One of them said that imagine about two decades ago, it appeared there was no effective alternative to the gasoline and oil, but now there is a better, cleaner, and more effective substitute to them: electricity. Although electric engines are not so widespread, more and more people consider changing their gasoline-fueled vehicles to electric cars. Then I discovered why electric cars are the future.

Argumentative Essay: Raising The Driving Age

I come from a small town with, to put it bluntly, a bunch of hillbillies who seem to think they’re completely invincible. This is to say that reckless driving and car wrecks are something I’m well acquainted with. In Ohio, minors cannot use cell phones while driving at all, while adults are only banned from texting. I disagree with this law. Distracted driving affects all age groups, and no matter how experienced you are, looking at your phone while driving puts everyone in danger.

Argumentative Essay On Electric Cars

Soumya Saji Ms. Patiño English 2/16/18 Global warming as became a huge concern for today’s world. The rise of alternative fuel sources is to help this worldwide problem, as a result, electric cars have started to become a familiarity to everyday roads. Electric cars have many benefits and potentially does help with global warming, but it may not be as environmental-friendly as advertised.

The Electric Car: Advantages And Cons Of Electric Cars

A fact for any electric vehicle is that it is dependent on the battery, which drives it, just as a petrole-um based car is dependent on its engine and fuel. The battery is, of course, what leads to the bene-fits of the electric car, like the fact that the car itself emits no CO2. But it also has some drawbacks when compared to a petroleum based car. Refuelling a petroleum based car is a simple process, simply pour petrol into the tank, it takes about ten minutes and then one can drive on. An electric car on the other hand needs to have its battery recharged with electricity, and as anyone who has ever recharged a battery at any size can attest that this is not an instant process.

Electric Cars Informative Speech

A lot of people love to hear about energy efficient and environmentally friendly options out there. The electric vehicles today serve great benefits in keeping emissions down and using a more friendly alternative energy source. In my opinion they have made an impact on the environment, but a major benefit in using this alternative resource is less cost to fuel the vehicle. Gasoline is very expensive today, and using the energy that is used to power our home, is much less expensive and more available than gas. The environment, as claimed by environmentalists, suffers due to the emissions of automobiles today.

Electric Vehicles Persuasive Speech

There are numerous reasons to why electric vehicles are safer, and I’ll name the common ones. Some of us here are already able to drive but you might’ve not thought of “explosion” when driving a car or being in a car because it doesn’t happen commonly though it is something significant to be aware of as it could happen. What is the reason for explosion of motor vehicles? Well simply because motor vehicles have internal combustion engines as the engine utilises petrol or diesel which are flammable and toxic if there is a source to start the ignition. What’s best about electric vehicle is the safety system for detecting and warning the driver to stop and exit the vehicle.

Informative Essay On Electric Cars

There's a lot of buzz going on about electric cars and it seems like every hipster and eco nut trying to save the environment but do you truly know what it takes to get them on the road. The process to make the batteries is a truly dirty process and it pollutes the air. Most electric cars that are available to the general public are very expensive and most of them do not have a very far range. Somewhere between a 20-270 mile range. Also you need to live somewhere there are the charging stations or have one put in at your home.

Persuasive Essay On Solar Energy

Although the scientists in the 1900s had warned the world about the shortage, many people still refuse to accept the idea that they will eventually be eventually using solar power as the only option. And each year, the debt from the consumer rate increases for every electricity company. For instance, as

Speech On Electric Car

but it’s hard to make it happen and make everyone to use it because it run slower and few distance than normal car. Now a day fuel is more expensive and most making carbon dioxide in human activity [ 1] and electric car is developed enough to run on the road like normal car that we can see on the road. Thesis Statement: The Electric car have several features that make it as the future of every car. Body1 Topic sentence: Electric car did not make pollution. Support idea: zero pollution Support detail: It use electrical energy instead of fuel that not making carbon dioxide to the air or any pollution to the nature.

More about Argumentative Essay: The Future Of Gas Cars

Oil And Gas Essay

Oil, Oil And Gas

combusting coal, oil and gas. Researches are looking in to diverse methods of harvesting energy to reduce the stress on oil and gas as existing wells of these natural resources, especially oil are emptying fast. New sources found for oil deposit are mostly very deep underground and difficult to be extracted. For this, higher end technologies for drills and more skilled engineers are needed. Both of these increase the cost to obtain oil for oil companies (Mae 2014). As crude oil sources are diminishing

Oil and Gas

OIL AND GAS ACCOUNTING: CRITICAL EXAMINATION OF THE APPLICATION OF THEORY TO PRACTICE IN NIGERIA 1.0 INTRODUCTION: The natural resources of a nation, particularly the minerals, often constitute the lion's share of the nation's wealth. This is particularly true of the OPEC nations including Nigeria. Prior to the development of accounting standards issued by the Nigerian Accounting Standards Board (NASB), the financial statements published by the oil and gas industry in Nigeria did not disclose adequate

The Oil And Gas Revolution

INTRODUCTION The Shale gas revolution has demonstrated a quantum leap from almost nothing in 2000 to over 30 billion cubic metres in 2011. This caused a crash of natural gas prices in the United States, significantly changing the country’s natural gas future outlook (Mangeri, 2012). The US oil and gas fracking revolution is a new paradigm which has made the country a game changer in the oil and gas scheme of things, and has immense implications for economics, energy and geopolitics. It is projected

Oil and Gas Ohs

SAFETY AND HEALTH MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IN OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY Author : Subhrajit Bose Managing Partner / Lead Architect Sustainability – NextLink Solutions 3 2 1 Introduction: Safety and health management is one of the vital constituents of Oil and Gas industry activities because most of the operational conditions, chemicals and end products (hydrocarbons and other compounds) associated with Oil and Gas production are well known to pose serious safety and health threats to the workers

The Oil And Gas Industry

exploration and production one like Cairn Energy, operate in the oil and gas industry. Each of these companies faces some financial, commercial or contractual considerations similar throughout the industry, and some peculiar to the area of operation within the industry. Problems within the oil and gas companies have occurred in the past due to askew interests and these problems are likely to occur in the future. Managers within the oil and gas industries requires essential working knowledge of the concepts

The oil and gas industry happens to be the largest industry in the world as it is the singular point of growth for a civilisation. Its importance lies in the fact that it is a fundamental aspect involving every individual’s lives from petrochemical products to transportation, heating and electricity fuels. Edwin Drake in Titusville, Pennsylvania drilled the very first oil well during 1859 and it paved the way to the beginning of the oil industry in America. While Edwin Drake focused on drilling

When thinking about how all this oil and gas gets from the platforms in the gulf to land to be produced, you will run across the phrase, “flow assurance.” Flow assurance is what makes sure these oils and gases get from point A to point B without any hesitations or problems. Its main purpose is to prevent hydrates, clogged pipes, and wax depositions. So can the oilfield industry survive without flow assurance, especially in deep water operations? By reading this, you will learn how important flow

The Oil And Natural Gas

Everyday oil and natural gas is being found in new areas and being sought after by companies who want to drill for and use those resources. More often than not these resources are under land already owned by someone else so the companies must come to an agreement with the landowner in order to get permission to drill for the oil and natural gas. Oil and gas are valuable commodities for landowners and can mean an extra income. Instead of selling the land and completely giving up their stake in the

the largest in the southern U.S. and Texas, has been developing strong economy, especially in oil and gas industry. During the last decades of the twentieth century, Houston focused on developing energy industry—which comprises oil and gas exploration and production, oilfield equipment manufacturing and wholesaling, and pipeline transportation. However, some economists doubt that depending on oil and gas too much could make Houston particularly vulnerable to economic downturns determined by energy

essay of gas

IMAGES

VIDEO

COMMENTS

Margin Size

Gas Laws - Overview

Introduction

Ideal Gases

Boyle's Law

Example \(\PageIndex{1}\)

Charles' Law

Example \(\PageIndex{2}\)

Avogadro's Law

Example \(\PageIndex{3}\)

Id e al Gas Law

Example \(\PageIndex{5}\)

Evaluation of the Gas Constant, R

General Gas Equation

Standard Conditions

The Van der Waals Equation For Real Gases

Exercise \(\PageIndex{1}\)

Exercise \(\PageIndex{2}\)

Exercise \(\PageIndex{3}\)

Have a question?

More Resources for Learning

Keep Exploring

Energy Storage

Freight Transportation

64 Natural Gas Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Why are fossil fuels so hard to quit?

Our energy comes from the sun, one way or another

How energy density and convenience drove fossil fuel growth

Different fuels carry different amounts of energy per unit of weight. Fossil fuels are more energy dense than other sources.

Fossil fuels still dominate global electricity generation.

Back to the future – the return of the solar era

Since 1900, global population and economic activity have skyrocketed, along with fossil fuel consumption.

Wind and solar power aren’t everything – the remaining challenges

WEIGHT OF FUEL

Our biggest challenges are political

About the Author

Why we still use fossil fuels

How is the COVID-19 pandemic affecting global energy markets?

The United States can take climate change seriously while leading the world in oil and gas production

Brookings experts comment on oil market developments and geopolitical tensions

Will investments in greener energy be yet another victim of the coronavirus?

Public Transportation

How Gas Prices Affect the Economy

Key Takeaways

Comparison of Gas Cars and Electric Cars

Table of contents

Cite this Essay

Related Essays

Still can’t find what you need?

Related Essays on Cars

Related Topics

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

Essay on Greenhouse Effect for Students and Children

Causes of Greenhouse Effect

Some Effects of Greenhouse Effect

600 Words Essay on Greenhouse Effect

Greenhouse Gases

Global Warming and the Greenhouse Effect

I. Natural Causes

II. Man-made Causes

Customize your course in 30 seconds

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Download the App

Electric Cars Are Better for the Planet – and Often Your Budget, Too

Gas Cars vs.Electric Cars Essay: Compare & Contrast

Introduction

What are the differences between electric cars and gas cars?

Which is better: electric or gas cars?

Which is faster: electric or gas cars?

What are the disadvantages of an electric car?

Are electric cars unsafe?

Your Article Library

Essay # Importance and Uses of Natural Gas :

Essay # Reserves and Consumption of Natural Gas :

Essay # Regions Producing Natural Gas :

Related Articles:

Comments are closed.

The workers searching for gas in the icy Russian Arctic – a photo essay

Most viewed

Argumentative Essay: The Future Of Gas Cars