Chemical cells and fuel cells

• What do cells contain that reacts to produce electricity?

  Chemicals
• What factors affect the voltage produced by a cell?

  The type of electrode and electrolyte
• How can a simple cell be made?

  By connecting two different metals in contact with an electrolyte
• What is a battery composed of?

  Two or more cells connected together in series
• What happens to non-rechargeable cells and batteries when one reactant is used up?

  Chemical reactions stop
• What type of batteries are non-rechargeable?

  Alkaline batteries
• Why can rechargeable cells and batteries be recharged?

  Because the chemical reactions are reversed when an external electrical current is supplied
• What is supplied to fuel cells for operation?

  An external source of fuel and oxygen or air
• What is the overall reaction in a hydrogen fuel cell?

  The oxidation of hydrogen to produce water
• What are the advantages and disadvantages of hydrogen fuel cells compared to rechargeable cells and batteries?

  Advantages:

  • Can be used constantly if fuel is supplied
  • Only produces water when burnt

  
  

  Disadvantages:

  • Hydrogen needs to be stored at high pressure
  • Harder to transport
  • Non-biodegradable waste
• Compare the operation of hydrogen fuel cells and rechargeable cells and batteries.

  • Hydrogen fuel cells require a constant supply of fuel
  • Rechargeable cells can be recharged by reversing the reaction
  • Hydrogen is a gas and needs high-pressure storage
  • Rechargeable cells do not require constant fuel supply