Fuel Cells (AQA GCSE Chemistry): Flashcards

Electricity (when supplied with fuel and oxidising agent)

Hydrogen gas ($H_2$) and oxygen gas ($O_2$)

Water ($H_2O$)

$2H_2 + O_2 \rightarrow 2H_2O$

$H_2 \rightarrow 2H^+ + 2e^-$

$H_2$ oxidised, loses electrons, forms $H^+$ ions

$O_2$ gains electrons, reacts with $H^+$ to form water

From anode to cathode through external circuit

Water (non-polluting)

Generate less waste than non-rechargeable batteries

Highly flammable gas requiring careful storage

Expensive and complex to develop

Space Shuttle and International Space Station