4. One method for producing hydrogen for use in fuel cells is the reforming of methane. In this

reaction, methane is reacted with steam to produce carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen (H₂),

also known as synthesis gas. Assume that the H₂ produced is then separated from the CO and

used as a fuel.

a) Using the provided heats of formation, calculate the energy released/required (in kJ/mol)

during reforming.

b) Which stream (methane + steam or synthesis gas) contains more chemical energy? Briefly

explain.

c) Additional hydrogen can be released by the water-gas shift reaction where CO and water

vapor react to form CO2 and H₂. Using the provided heats of formation, calculate the energy

released/required (in kJ/mol) during this reaction.

d) In a fuel cell-powered car the hydrogen is oxidized with O₂ to produce water. How much

energy is released per mass of H₂ consumed in this reaction in kJ/g?

e)

Assume that the efficiency of the conversion of hydrogen to mechanical energy in a fuel

cell-powered engine is 75%. How much methane (in grams) would have to be converted

to produce enough hydrogen to enable 150 kJ of work to be done? Assume both steam

methane reforming and the water-gas shift reaction are used to produce the hydrogen.