Cracked steam is typically produced through a process called steam reforming, where high-temperature steam is passed over a catalyst, usually a metal oxide, to facilitate the decomposition reaction. The reaction is endothermic, meaning it absorbs heat energy, and requires temperatures above 700°C (1,300°F).
However, in the presence of a catalyst and at high temperatures, the oxygen produced reacts with carbon-based materials, such as methane or coal, to produce carbon monoxide: cracked steam
H2O (steam) → H2 (hydrogen) + 1/2 O2 (oxygen) Cracked steam is typically produced through a process