Fuel Cells in the Automotive Industry

What is the process that occurs when fuel enters a fuel cell?

What is a major advantage of hydrogen fuel cells compared to traditional internal combustion engines?

What is a major disadvantage of hydrogen fuel cells?

What is a characteristic of hydrogen-oxygen fuel cells?

Why are high pressure tanks needed to store oxygen and hydrogen in fuel cells?

What is a limitation of fuel cells in terms of temperature?

What is a benefit of hydrogen fuel cells in terms of environmental impact?

Fuel Cells

A fuel cell is an electrochemical cell where a fuel donates electrons at one electrode and oxygen gains electrons at the other electrode.
They are becoming increasingly used in the automotive industry to replace petrol or diesel engines.

Principles of Fuel Cells

As fuel enters the cell, it becomes oxidized, setting up a potential difference or voltage within the cell.
Different electrolytes and fuels can be used to create different types of fuel cells.

Hydrogen-Oxygen Fuel Cell

This type of fuel cell combines hydrogen and oxygen to release energy and water.
Advantages of hydrogen fuel cells include:
- Zero pollution
- Higher energy production per kilogram than petrol or diesel
- No power loss during transmission due to the absence of moving parts
- No battery disposal issues
- Continuous energy production as long as fuel is supplied
Disadvantages of hydrogen fuel cells include:
- Expensive materials used in production
- High-pressure tanks required for oxygen and hydrogen storage, which are dangerous and difficult to handle
- Reduced efficiency at low temperatures
- High cost of producing and storing hydrogen

Learn about fuel cells, their electrochemical process, and their increasing use in the automotive industry as an alternative to petrol or diesel engines.