With reference to the Hydrogen Fuel Cell technology, consider the foll...
Statement 1 is correct. Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology: Hydrogen + Oxygen = Electricity + Water Vapor
A fuel cell is a device that converts chemical potential energy (energy stored in molecular bonds) into electrical energy. A PEM (Proton Exchange Membrane) cell uses hydrogen gas (H2) and oxygen gas (O2) as fuel. The products of the reaction in the cell are water, electricity, and heat. This is a big improvement over internal combustion engines, coal burning power plants, and nuclear power plants, all of which produce harmful by-products.
Statement 2 is correct. Current produced using Fuel Cell Technology is Direct Current(DC).
Statement 3 is incorrect. While the fuel cells generate electricity through an electrochemical process, unlike a battery-electricity vehicle, it does not store energy and, instead, relies on a constant supply of fuel and oxygen — in the same way that an internal combustion engine relies on a constant supply of petrol or diesel, and oxygen. In that sense, it may be seen as being similar to a conventional internal combustion engine.
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With reference to the Hydrogen Fuel Cell technology, consider the foll...
Statement: Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology
Introduction:
Hydrogen fuel cell technology is a clean and sustainable energy solution that utilizes the chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen to produce electricity. It offers several advantages over conventional fossil fuel-based technologies, such as zero-emission operation, high efficiency, and versatility.
Analysis of the Statements:
1. It produces water and heat as the only byproduct.
2. It produces Direct Current (DC) electricity.
3. It stores energy for powering electric vehicles.
Explanation:
1. It produces water and heat as the only byproduct:
The basic working principle of a hydrogen fuel cell involves the electrochemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen. In this process, hydrogen is supplied to the anode of the fuel cell, while oxygen (usually from the air) is supplied to the cathode. The hydrogen molecules are split into protons and electrons at the anode, and the protons pass through the electrolyte to reach the cathode. The electrons, on the other hand, flow through an external circuit, creating an electric current that can be utilized for various applications. At the cathode, the protons, electrons, and oxygen combine to form water molecules (H2O) as the only byproduct. This reaction is highly efficient and produces no harmful emissions, making it environmentally friendly.
2. It produces Direct Current (DC) electricity:
Hydrogen fuel cells produce Direct Current (DC) electricity, which is the type of electricity commonly used in electronic devices and electric vehicles. The electrons generated from the electrochemical reaction flow through an external circuit, providing a constant flow of DC electricity. However, since most devices and electrical grids use Alternating Current (AC) electricity, an inverter is required to convert the DC electricity produced by fuel cells into AC electricity.
3. It stores energy for powering electric vehicles:
Hydrogen fuel cells are considered as energy storage systems because they convert stored hydrogen into electricity when needed. This makes them ideal for powering electric vehicles as they offer longer driving ranges compared to batteries alone. Hydrogen can be stored in high-pressure tanks and easily refueled, providing a quick and convenient alternative to recharging electric vehicle batteries.
Conclusion:
Based on the above analysis, it can be concluded that statements 1 and 2 are correct. Hydrogen fuel cell technology produces water and heat as the only byproduct and produces Direct Current (DC) electricity. However, statement 3 is not entirely accurate as hydrogen fuel cells themselves do not store energy. Instead, they utilize stored hydrogen to produce electricity.
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