Question

which of these is the best argument for switching from combustion-powered cars to fuel cell cars in order to help the environment? they use hydrogen, which produces water vapor instead of co₂. they conserve gasoline reserves so they can be burned in the future. they decrease the money spent by consumers on transportation. they decrease the reliance on other countries for non-renewable resources.

Explanation:

To determine the best argument for switching to fuel - cell cars for the environment, we analyze each option:

• Option 1: Fuel - cell cars use hydrogen. The reaction in a fuel - cell car (hydrogen fuel cell) produces water vapor ($\ce{H_2O}$) as a by - product, while combustion - powered cars produce carbon dioxide ($\ce{CO_2}$), which is a major greenhouse gas contributing to climate change. Reducing $\ce{CO_2}$ emissions is a direct environmental benefit.
• Option 2: Conserving gasoline for future burning does not help the environment in the long run as burning gasoline still produces pollutants and greenhouse gases.
• Option 3: Decreasing consumer transportation costs is an economic benefit, not an environmental one.
• Option 4: Decreasing reliance on other countries for non - renewable resources is an economic/geopolitical benefit, not a direct environmental benefit related to reducing pollution or climate - changing emissions.

Answer:

A. They use hydrogen, which produces water vapor instead of $\ce{CO_2}$.