All Flashcards
Explain the basic principle of a hydrogen fuel cell.
It uses hydrogen and oxygen to create electricity, producing only water as a byproduct, making it a clean energy alternative.
What is the role of the electrolyte in a hydrogen fuel cell?
It allows protons (H⁺) to travel from the anode to the cathode, completing the circuit.
Why are PEM fuel cells suitable for vehicles?
They have high power density and quick start-up times, making them ideal for transportation.
Explain the concept of energy carrier.
Hydrogen fuel cells are not a source of energy, they are an energy carrier. The hydrogen fuel must be produced using other sources of energy.
What are the environmental benefits of hydrogen fuel cells?
They produce only water as a byproduct, reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
What are the economic challenges of hydrogen fuel cells?
High manufacturing costs and the need for infrastructure development are major economic hurdles.
How does a fuel cell differ from a battery?
Fuel cells generate energy as long as they have fuel, while batteries store energy.
What is the significance of fuel cell efficiency?
Higher efficiency means less energy is wasted, leading to better resource utilization and lower costs.
Why is hydrogen flammability a concern?
Hydrogen is flammable, but safety measures are in place.
What are the cons of hydrogen fuel cells?
Expensive, construction releases pollutants, and difficult to store.
What are the major steps in the operation of a hydrogen fuel cell?
Hydrogen in, Oxygen in, Electrolyte action, Proton journey, Electron flow, Water formation.
Describe the ionization process within a hydrogen fuel cell.
At the anode, hydrogen molecules are split into protons (H+) and electrons (e-).
Explain how electricity is generated in a hydrogen fuel cell.
Electrons flow through an external circuit from anode to cathode, creating an electric current.
What happens to protons in a hydrogen fuel cell?
Protons travel through the electrolyte from the anode to the cathode.
How is water formed in a hydrogen fuel cell?
At the cathode, protons, electrons, and oxygen combine to form water (H2O).
Describe the movement of electrons in a hydrogen fuel cell.
Electrons are forced to travel through an external circuit, generating electricity.
Describe the first step in hydrogen fuel cell operation.
Hydrogen gas (H₂) is fed into the anode (negative electrode).
Describe the second step in hydrogen fuel cell operation.
Oxygen (O₂) from the air enters the cathode (positive electrode).
Describe the final step in hydrogen fuel cell operation.
At the cathode, protons, electrons, and oxygen combine to form water (H₂O).
Describe the role of the external circuit in hydrogen fuel cell operation.
Electrons are forced to travel through an external circuit, generating electricity.
What is a hydrogen fuel cell?
A device that combines hydrogen and oxygen to produce electricity, water, and heat.
What is an anode?
The negative electrode in a fuel cell where hydrogen gas is fed.
What is a cathode?
The positive electrode in a fuel cell where oxygen from the air enters.
What is an electrolyte?
A substance in a fuel cell that allows ions to move between the anode and cathode.
What is a PEM fuel cell?
Proton Exchange Membrane fuel cell; commonly used in vehicles and portable devices.
What is cogeneration?
The simultaneous production of both heat and electricity.
Define 'fuel cell' efficiency.
The percentage of chemical energy in the fuel that is converted into usable electricity.
What is a byproduct?
A secondary product made in the manufacture or synthesis of something else.
Define 'renewable energy'.
Energy from a source that is not depleted when used, such as solar power or wind power.
Define 'emission'.
The production and discharge of something, especially gas or radiation.