Saved Bookmarks
| 1. |
Explain the function of H_(2)-O_(2) fuel cell. |
|
Answer» Solution :Fuel cell : (i) The galvanic cell in which the energy of combustion of fuels is directly converted into electrical energy is called the fuel cell. (ii) It requires a continuous supply of reactant to keep functioning. (iii) The general representation of a fuel cell is follows Fuel | Electrode | Electrolyte | Electrode | Oxidant (iv) Let us understand the function of fuel cell by considering hydrogen - oxygen fuel cell. (v) In this case, hydrogen act as a fuel and oxygen as an oxidant and the electrolyte is aqueous KOH maintained at `200^(@)C` and 20 - 40 atm. (vi) Porous graphite electrode containing NI and NIO serves as the inert electrodes. (vii) Hydrogen and oxygen gases are bubbled through the anode and cathode, respectively. Oxidation OCCURS at the anode: `2H_(2(g))+4OH_((AQ))^(-) rarr 4H_(2)O(L)+4e^(-)` Reduction occurs at the cathode `O_(2(g))+2H_(2)O(l)+4e^(-) rarr 4OH_((aq))^(-)` The overall reaction is `2H_(2(g))+O_(2(g)) rarr 2H_(2)O(l)` |
|