The hydrogen economy

It is stated that frequently each unit of useful energy produced in the form of electricity requires up to 7.5 units of fossil fuel energy to generate it; this makes it desirable to consider other energy sources. In this connection the advantages of what is commonly known as the 'hydrogen economy' are discussed. The most important points considered are the availability of hydrogen, the ease of transportation and storage, and the versatility in use. A section is devoted to the hydrogenation of coal and the production of hydrocarbons and oils. (U.K.)