Question

Scientists suggest fuel cells as an alternative for conventional methods of power generation.

1. What are fuel cells?

2. Give the overall cell reaction of the H₂ – O₂ fuel cell. Also draw a neat labelled diagram of this cell.

3. What are the advantages of the fuel cells?

Answer 1

1. Fuel cells are Galvanic cells designed to convert the energy of combustion of fuels directly into electrical energy.

2. The overall reaction taking place in an H₂ – O₂ fuel cell is 2H₂(g) + O₂(g) → 2H₂O(l)

3. Advantages : 

• High efficiency 
• Steady voltage 
• Pollution free