Hydrogen Fuel Cell
Definition
A hydrogen fuel cell is a device that converts the chemical energy of hydrogen and oxygen into electrical energy, producing water as a byproduct.
Analogy
Think of a hydrogen fuel cell as a mini power plant inside your car. Just like how a power plant generates electricity from burning fossil fuels, a fuel cell generates electricity from the reaction between hydrogen and oxygen.
Related terms
Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cells: These are a type of hydrogen fuel cell that use an electrolyte membrane to conduct protons and separate the reactant gases.
Phosphoric Acid Fuel Cells: These are another type of hydrogen fuel cell that use phosphoric acid as an electrolyte to facilitate the electrochemical reactions.
Electrolysis: The process of using electricity to split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen gases, which can then be used in a fuel cell.
"Hydrogen Fuel Cell" appears in:
Study guides (1)
Additional resources (1)
Practice Questions (5)
What are the main components needed to generate electricity in a hydrogen fuel cell?
What is the byproduct of a hydrogen fuel cell?
What is the role of the anode in a hydrogen fuel cell?
What is the role of the cathode in a hydrogen fuel cell?
What is the role of the electrolyte in a hydrogen fuel cell?
Are you a college student?
Study guides for the entire semester
200k practice questions
Glossary of 50k key terms - memorize important vocab
Resources
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.