Fuel Cell

A fuel cell is a device that produces electricity from chemical sources of fuel such as hydrogen. Uses for the fuel cell range from powering laptop computers to cars.

Fuel Cell Overview

Fuel cells have two electrodes, the positive anode and the negative cathode, as well as electrolytes that carry electrically charged particles from one electrode to the other. There is also a catalyst that speeds up the electrode reactions.

Fuel cells are fueled by hydroden and oxygen as well. Together, these elements come together to produce water, a harmless byproduct.c

The purpose of a fuel cell is to produce an electrical currant that can then be directed outside of the cell to perform work, like powering an electric motor or illuminating a light bulb. This current then returns to the fuel cell, completing an electrical circuit.c

How Fuel Cell Works

While different types of fuel cells operate differently, in general they work as follows:

1. Hydrogen atoms enter a fuel cell at the anode where a chemical reaction removes their electrons.

2. The now ionized hydrogen atoms carry positive charges.

3. Negatively-charged ions provide the electrical current.

4. Oxygen enters the fuel cell at the cathode and combines with electrons returning from the electrical circuit, as well as hydrogen ions that have gone through the electrolyte from the anode.

5. The electrolyte allows only the appropriate ions to pass between the anode and the cathode.

6. Hydrogen and oxygen form water that drains from the cell.

7. Waste heat from the cell can be harnessed to boost system efficiency.c c