[thackney]

Can you explain in terms that are specific why it takes more energy than it creates to extract hydrogen from water?

Because of inefficiencies at every step. It could be theoretically equal, if you could do everything with pure superconductors that have no resistance, every calorie of heat released or required had zero movement in or out of the system, all products and reactants could be moved in and out without energy being spent. But there is some inefficiency in every step of the process, consequently each step requires some additional energy from somewhere.

[Toddsterpatriot]

Thanks.