New Scientist's Take on the "Slacktivism" Trend

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In summary, the article discusses a possible way to create a recyclable energy carrier out of three reactive metals. It would likely require a lot of work and expense to make it feasible.
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  • #2
Not being a chemist, well, having a degree in it anyway, myself I don't know if magnesium, cesium and rubidium could be used as a recyclable energy carrier like the iron, aluminum and boron mentioned in the article. These three elements are quite reactive with oxygen, surely they could be used?
Aircraft or military machines is the applications for such fuel, that I can think of anyway. For most fueling applications cesium and rubidium would cost far too much wouldn't they?
 
  • #3
One would have to look at the total process - to see if that is feasible.

It appears the idea is to oxidize the metal, which means change in volume and mass - with mass increasing. What is the specific energy of the system, as compared to alternatives?

Also, how is the thermal energy converted to mechanical energy for propulsion?

And where does one deposit the metal oxide?

And how much energy is consumed in reconverting oxide to metal?

Oxidation of Al is part of solid fuel rocket propulsion technology already - e.g. Shuttle SRBs.
 
  • #4
Astronuc said:
One would have to look at the total process - to see if that is feasible.
It appears the idea is to oxidize the metal, which means change in volume and mass - with mass increasing. What is the specific energy of the system, as compared to alternatives?
Also, how is the thermal energy converted to mechanical energy for propulsion?
And where does one deposit the metal oxide?
And how much energy is consumed in reconverting oxide to metal?
Oxidation of Al is part of solid fuel rocket propulsion technology already - e.g. Shuttle SRBs.

Ok, I've got nothing though.

Don't know, article doesn't say much.

Like in a normal internal combustion engine.

Don't know, some sort of tank in the car I guess.

It'd depend what metal it is, aluminum would take more than iron. Boron would take more than both of them, by several times.

Yes, but you can't run cars that way.

Magnesium, cesium and rubidium are hugely reactive. Small vials of the latter two reacting with water are like bombs going off. They'd make very, very high density fuel, wouldn't they? Sure, a way to keep the latter two from just oxidising in the air would have to be thought up, something invloving storage in a vacuum tank, or Noble gas, probably.
 

FAQ: New Scientist's Take on the "Slacktivism" Trend

What is "slacktivism"?

"Slacktivism" is a term used to describe the act of participating in online activism or supporting a social cause through minimal effort, such as liking a social media post or changing a profile picture.

Is "slacktivism" effective?

The effectiveness of "slacktivism" is highly debated. Some argue that it raises awareness and can lead to real-world change, while others argue that it creates a false sense of accomplishment and does not address the root of the issue.

What are the potential drawbacks of "slacktivism"?

One potential drawback of "slacktivism" is that it may distract from or replace more meaningful forms of activism. It can also perpetuate the idea that social change can be achieved through minimal effort, rather than sustained and dedicated action.

How does "slacktivism" impact traditional forms of activism?

Some argue that "slacktivism" can complement traditional forms of activism by raising awareness and engaging a wider audience. However, others argue that it can undermine the efforts of traditional activists and decrease overall participation in real-world activism.

What can be done to address the negative effects of "slacktivism"?

To address the negative effects of "slacktivism," individuals can educate themselves on the issues at hand and take meaningful action, such as volunteering or donating to organizations working towards change. Organizations and activists can also use social media to educate and engage their followers in more meaningful ways.

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