Which technology operates through an electrochemical process that transforms the energy stored in hydrogen gas (H₂) and oxygen into electrical power without combustion?
Hydrogen fuel cells
Solution:
The technology that transforms the energy stored in hydrogen gas (H₂) and oxygen into electrical power through an electrochemical process, without combustion, is known as hydrogen fuel cells.
Explanation: In hydrogen fuel cells, hydrogen gas (H₂) and oxygen (O₂) from the air react electrochemically. This process involves the following key steps:
- Anode Reaction: Hydrogen molecules are split into protons and electrons at the anode. The reaction is: H₂ → 2H⁺ + 2e⁻
- Cathode Reaction: Oxygen molecules react with the protons and electrons to form water at the cathode. The reaction is: O₂ + 4H⁺ + 4e⁻ → 2H₂O
- Overall Cell Reaction: The complete reaction in a hydrogen fuel cell is: 2H₂ + O₂ → 2H₂O
This process efficiently converts chemical energy into electrical energy, with water being the only byproduct, unlike combustion technologies that emit greenhouse gases.
This distinguishes hydrogen fuel cells from other technologies mentioned:
- Hydroelectric power: Uses water flow to generate electricity, not electrochemical conversion.
- Wind power: Generates electricity from the kinetic energy of wind.
- Solar thermal power: Uses sunlight to heat a fluid, which powers a turbine to generate electricity.
Therefore, the correct answer is Hydrogen fuel cells.
Similar Questions
Which of the following is a primary difference between a primary and a secondary electrochemical cell?
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Choose the correct statement.
When two different concentrations of Hydrochloric acids are used as electrolytes in a system, it contributes as an additional source of potential difference at the interface. This is an example of ________.
Which of the following is a primary difference between a primary and a secondary electrochemical cell?
