Boron: The Best Choice in Alternative Fuel Given how the environment is changing these days, it seems like it might be a good idea to increase the price of gasoline by a dollar. With growing concerns about pollution and other toxins in the atmosphere, the industry is forced to look to alternative forms of fuel. This additional gas tax could help fund their research. Research is currently underway on the element boron. It has been found to be more efficient and generally safer than petrol. In the past, scientists have looked at solar- and electric-powered vehicles to help reduce pollutants. Only recently has boron been introduced as another viable alternative fuel. This alternative to gasoline is extremely combustible and when it burns there are no harmful emissions or pollutants. Furthermore, it is easy to dispose of and has an extremely high energy density (Young 1). This little-known element has become more recognized for its unique properties. Discovered in 1808 by J.L. Gay-Lussac and L.J. Thenard in Paris, France, and Sir Humphry Davy in London, England, boron is element number five in the periodic table of elements. The name "boron" comes from the Arabic "buraq" (pronounced borax). The actual element, boron, is not commonly used, but boron compounds are very common. These compounds can be found in household items such as detergents. Boron is also used in Pyrex glass, which makes the glass more resistant to heat. Boron is also an essential mineral for plants and animals, although it can be toxic in large quantities (Chemsoc 1). Boron has many common uses, but there are also many benefits to using it as an alternative form of fuel....... middle of paper...... if the extra money from rising gasoline prices been invested in boron fueled cars, I'm sure they wouldn't disappoint. Works CitedChemsoc. A visual interpretation of the table of elements. Chemsoc. October 2, 2001 .Childs, Tracy and Steve Orlando. Researchers propose an alternative fusion reactor to power the future. University of California Irvine. October 2, 2001 .Cowan, Grahm RL Boron: a better energy carrier than hydrogen? Eagle.ca. 2 Oct. 2001 .Winter, Mark. Periodic table: boron. Webelements Ltd.. October 11, 2001 .Young, Matt. Boron vehicle. October 2 2001>.