Question

Explain how hydrogen fuel cells work, and why they provide a healthy, clean way to produce heat and electricity.

Answer 1

Hydrogen gas is supplied to the anode of the fuel cell. The anode is coated with platinum, which acts as a catalyst to break down the hydrogen into protons and electrons. If a circuit is connected between the anode and cathode then the electrons can travel through the circuit and provide power to any load that is connected as part of the circuit. Hydrogen does not occur naturally in the environment, hydrogen fuel must be derived from other substances that contain hydrogen such asmethanol, gasoline, natural gas, and water. Most hydrogen that is produced today comes from natural gas. If hydrogen is made from water the only byproduct is pure water. If fossil fuels are used as the original source of hydrogen there will be more by-products, such as carbon dioxide. When hydrogen is produced from water electricity is used to split the water molecule. If that electricity comes from a renewable energy source such as wind or solar power, then the resulting hydrogen is a renewable, zero emission fuel

Answer 2

Hydrogen fuel works on the principle of making water by H2 and O2 !!

At the cathode (negative electrode): H2(g)-2e →2H+(aq)
At the anode (positive electrode): 4H+(aq) + O2(g) + 4e– → 2H2O(g)

* As there is no harmful gasses evolve, and only water is formed so these cells are clean and healthy to use !!

(ADDITIONAL)

and remember these are 90-98% efficient !! as compare to petrol or diesel that are 50-60% efficient !!

Hydrogen fuel cells are used in Space programs to make pure water and other purposes !!