All Flashcards
What is the role of hydrogen in a fuel cell?
Hydrogen is the fuel source that reacts with oxygen to produce electricity.
Why are PEM fuel cells suitable for vehicles?
They have high power density and quick start-up times.
What makes hydrogen fuel cells a clean energy alternative?
They produce water as the only byproduct, minimizing pollution.
What is the primary advantage of molten carbonate fuel cells?
High efficiency, making them suitable for large-scale power plants.
How does a fuel cell differ from a battery?
Fuel cells generate energy as long as fuel is supplied, while batteries store energy.
What is the environmental significance of fuel cell emissions?
Fuel cells emit only water, reducing greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels.
Why is hydrogen considered an energy carrier?
Hydrogen must be produced using other energy sources, not a primary source itself.
What is the significance of quick start-up time in fuel cells?
Allows for immediate energy availability when needed, enhancing usability.
What is the role of oxygen in a hydrogen fuel cell?
Oxygen combines with hydrogen ions and electrons at the cathode to form water.
What is the purpose of the electrolyte in a fuel cell?
It allows the movement of ions between the anode and cathode, completing the circuit.
What is the effect of using hydrogen fuel cells on air quality?
Reduced air pollution due to water being the only byproduct.
What is the effect of high manufacturing costs on hydrogen fuel cell adoption?
It limits widespread adoption due to economic barriers.
What is the effect of hydrogen's flammability on fuel cell safety?
Requires stringent safety measures to prevent accidents.
What is the effect of hydrogen production methods on the environmental impact of fuel cells?
If hydrogen production relies on fossil fuels, the overall environmental benefit is reduced.
What is the effect of limited hydrogen availability on fuel cell use?
Restricts fuel cell use to areas with hydrogen infrastructure.
What is the effect of using PEM fuel cells in vehicles?
Reduces greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution compared to gasoline-powered vehicles.
What is the effect of quiet operation of hydrogen fuel cells?
Makes them suitable for use in residential areas and sensitive environments.
What is the effect of the need for infrastructure development for hydrogen distribution?
Increases the initial investment costs and logistical challenges.
What is the effect of high efficiency of hydrogen fuel cells?
Reduces energy waste and lowers operating costs.
What is the effect of quick start-up times of hydrogen fuel cells?
Makes them convenient for on-demand power generation.
What is a hydrogen fuel cell?
A device that combines hydrogen and oxygen to produce electricity, water, and heat.
What is an anode?
The negative electrode in a fuel cell where hydrogen gas is fed.
What is a cathode?
The positive electrode in a fuel cell where oxygen from the air enters.
What is an electrolyte?
A substance in a fuel cell that allows ions to move between the anode and cathode.
What is a PEM fuel cell?
Proton Exchange Membrane fuel cell; commonly used in vehicles and portable devices.
What is cogeneration?
The simultaneous production of both heat and electricity.
Define 'fuel cell' efficiency.
The percentage of chemical energy in the fuel that is converted into usable electricity.
What is a byproduct?
A secondary product made in the manufacture or synthesis of something else.
Define 'renewable energy'.
Energy from a source that is not depleted when used, such as solar power or wind power.
Define 'emission'.
The production and discharge of something, especially gas or radiation.