Helium and hydrogen, being lighter-than-air gases, have various practical applications. Here are some things that can be made using helium and hydrogen:
Helium:
Balloons: Helium is commonly used to fill balloons, making them float in the air. It is widely used in decorative balloons for parties, events, and celebrations.
Airships and Blimps: Historically, helium has been used as a lifting gas in airships and blimps due to its low density. It provides buoyancy and allows these vehicles to float in the air.
Cooling Systems: Helium is utilized in cryogenic cooling systems, such as those used in scientific research, superconducting magnets, and cooling certain medical equipment.
Welding: In certain specialized welding applications, helium is used as a shielding gas to protect the weld area from atmospheric contamination and improve the welding process.
Hydrogen:
Fuel: Hydrogen can be used as a clean and efficient fuel source. It can power fuel cells, which generate electricity through the reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, with water being the only byproduct. Hydrogen fuel cells are used in various applications, including vehicles, portable power systems, and stationary power generation.
Ammonia Production: Hydrogen is a key component in the production of ammonia, a vital compound used in fertilizers, cleaning products, and various industrial processes.
Hydrogenation: Hydrogenation is a chemical process that involves the addition of hydrogen to molecules. It is used in the production of various products, including margarine, vegetable oils, and certain chemical compounds.
Lift Gas: Although less common than helium, hydrogen can still be used as a lifting gas in certain applications. However, its use as a lifting gas has declined due to safety concerns related to its flammability.
It's important to note that while both helium and hydrogen have practical uses, the availability, safety considerations, and specific applications of these gases vary significantly.