Fuel Cells and Electrochemical Devices Quiz

What is the key difference between fuel cells and batteries?

Batteries store energy, while fuel cells produce electricity continuously if fuels are supplied

Which component of a fuel cell conducts the electrons freed from the hydrogen molecules?

Anode

In which application were fuel cells first commercially used?

Powering satellites and space shuttles

What is the function of the cathode in a fuel cell?

It is the positive post of the fuel cell Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the catalyst in a fuel cell?

Facilitate the reaction of oxygen and hydrogen Signup and view all the answers

Why is carbon fiber paper commonly used for making anodes and cathodes in fuel cells?

It is porous, hydrophobic, and conductive Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for the adoption of fuel cells?

Addressing the scarcity of fossil fuel sources Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the electrolyte in a fuel cell?

Conduct charged ions from one electrode to the other Signup and view all the answers

Why is platinum used as a catalyst in fuel cells?

To maximize the surface area for reaction while minimizing platinum usage Signup and view all the answers

How does a fuel cell work in generating electricity?

By facilitating the reaction of oxygen and hydrogen across a permeable membrane Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the anode in a fuel cell?

It conducts electrons and disperses hydrogen over the catalyst surface Signup and view all the answers

How does the function of a fuel cell differ from that of a battery?

Batteries store energy, while fuel cells produce electricity continuously if fuel is supplied Signup and view all the answers

Which component of a fuel cell acts as the positive post where reduction takes place?

Cathode Signup and view all the answers

What was the first commercial usage of fuel cells?

Powering satellites and space shuttles Signup and view all the answers

Why did NASA initially utilize fuel cells to power satellites and space shuttles?

To provide a continuous source of electricity Signup and view all the answers

What material is commonly used to make the anode and cathode in fuel cells, and why?

Carbon fiber paper, because it is non-corrosive, conductive, porous, and hydrophobic. Signup and view all the answers

Why is the amount of platinum used in the catalyst of a fuel cell a significant factor in its cost?

Platinum is an expensive material, so the amount used directly impacts the cost of the fuel cell. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the electrolyte in a fuel cell?

To conduct charged ions from one electrode to the other. Signup and view all the answers

Why are fuel cells being increasingly adopted over fossil fuels?

Because fossil fuels have become scarce and their usage has led to global warming and environmental issues. Signup and view all the answers

What role does a catalyst play in a fuel cell?

To facilitate the reaction of oxygen and hydrogen by increasing the rate of reaction. Signup and view all the answers