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Chemical reactions can produce electricity - AQA - GCSE Chemistry - Question 3 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 3
Chemical reactions can produce electricity. Figure 2 shows a simple cell. Which of these combinations would not give a zero reading on the voltmeter in Figure 2? ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Chemical reactions can produce electricity - AQA - GCSE Chemistry - Question 3 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
Which of these combinations would not give a zero reading on the voltmeter in Figure 2?
Answer
The combination that would not give a zero reading is:
- Electrode A: Copper
- Electrode B: Zinc
- Electrolyte: Sodium chloride solution
This setup involves two different electrodes in the presence of a suitable electrolyte, allowing for a potential difference.
Step 2
Why do alkaline batteries eventually stop working?
Answer
Alkaline batteries eventually stop working because a reactant is used up during the chemical reaction. As the active materials in the battery are depleted, the battery's ability to produce voltage diminishes, leading to its eventual failure.
Step 3
Step 4
Step 5
Evaluate the use of hydrogen fuel cells compared with rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.
Answer
Hydrogen fuel cells have advantages such as:
- Faster refueling times: The time taken to refuel a hydrogen fuel cell is significantly less than recharging lithium-ion batteries, taking about 5 minutes compared to 30 minutes for lithium-ion batteries.
- Longer range: Hydrogen fuel cells can travel distances up to 415 miles before needing a refuel, while lithium-ion batteries typically travel up to 240 miles.
- Eco-friendliness: Hydrogen can be produced using renewable resources, leading to potentially lower environmental impacts.
However, lithium-ion batteries also have their advantages:
- Energy efficiency: They use energy more efficiently, which can make them cheaper to operate in terms of energy costs.
- Cost: The initial cost of lithium-ion batteries is significantly lower compared to hydrogen fuel cells, which can cost a minimum of £60,000 against £18,000 for lithium-ion cars.
In conclusion, while both technologies have distinct benefits, choice depends on application and infrastructure availability.