All Flashcards
What are the main steps in the operation of a hydrogen fuel cell?
Hydrogen in (anode), Oxygen in (cathode), Electrolyte action, Ionization, Proton journey, Electron flow, Water formation.
Describe the process at the anode of a hydrogen fuel cell.
Hydrogen gas (H₂) is fed into the anode, where it is ionized, creating protons (H⁺) and electrons (e⁻).
Describe the process at the cathode of a hydrogen fuel cell.
Oxygen (O₂) from the air enters the cathode, where it combines with protons and electrons to form water (H₂O).
Explain how electricity is generated in a hydrogen fuel cell.
Electrons are forced to travel through an external circuit, generating electricity as they move from the anode to the cathode.
What happens to the protons after they are created at the anode?
Protons travel through the electrolyte to the cathode.
How is water formed in a hydrogen fuel cell?
At the cathode, protons, electrons, and oxygen combine to form water (H₂O).
What is the first step of hydrogen fuel cells?
Hydrogen gas (H₂) is fed into the anode (negative electrode).
What is the second step of hydrogen fuel cells?
Oxygen (O₂) from the air enters the cathode (positive electrode).
What is the third step of hydrogen fuel cells?
An electrolyte (a special substance that allows ions to move) sits between the anode and cathode.
What is the fourth step of hydrogen fuel cells?
At the anode, hydrogen is ionized, creating protons (H⁺) and electrons (e⁻).
What is the role of hydrogen in a fuel cell?
Hydrogen is the fuel source that reacts with oxygen to produce electricity.
Why are PEM fuel cells suitable for vehicles?
They have high power density and quick start-up times.
What makes hydrogen fuel cells a clean energy alternative?
They produce water as the only byproduct, minimizing pollution.
What is the primary advantage of molten carbonate fuel cells?
High efficiency, making them suitable for large-scale power plants.
How does a fuel cell differ from a battery?
Fuel cells generate energy as long as fuel is supplied, while batteries store energy.
What is the environmental significance of fuel cell emissions?
Fuel cells emit only water, reducing greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels.
Why is hydrogen considered an energy carrier?
Hydrogen must be produced using other energy sources, not a primary source itself.
What is the significance of quick start-up time in fuel cells?
Allows for immediate energy availability when needed, enhancing usability.
What is the role of oxygen in a hydrogen fuel cell?
Oxygen combines with hydrogen ions and electrons at the cathode to form water.
What is the purpose of the electrolyte in a fuel cell?
It allows the movement of ions between the anode and cathode, completing the circuit.
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.