Fuel Cells (Leaving Cert Chemistry): Flashcards

Electrochemical device converting chemical to electrical energy

Hydrogen as fuel, oxygen as oxidising agent

Don't store energy internally; generate electricity while fuel is supplied

Oxidation-reduction reactions

$\text{H}_2(g) \rightarrow 2\text{H}^+(aq) + 2e^-$

Porous carbon with platinum catalyst

$\frac{1}{2}\text{O}_2(g) + 2\text{H}^+(aq) + 2e^- \rightarrow \text{H}_2\text{O}(l)$

$\text{H}_2(g) + \frac{1}{2}\text{O}_2(g) \rightarrow \text{H}_2\text{O}(l)$

Allows H⁺ through, blocks electrons, separates gases

Water

H₂ produced by splitting water using renewable electricity

$2\text{H}_2\text{O}(l) \rightarrow 2\text{H}_2(g) + \text{O}_2(g)$

Zero emissions, quick refuelling, long range, quiet operation