4.5.2 Chemical cells and fuel cells

Question 1

What is a cell?

Answer 1

A cell is composed of two electrodes dipped in electrolyte solution. It produces electricity from a chemical reaction.

Question 2

What is a battery?

Answer 2

A battery consists of two or more cells connected in series.

Question 3

What determines the voltage obtained from a cell?

Answer 3

Identities of metals used as electrodes and the identity and concentration of an electrolyte.

Question 4

State the advantages and disadvantages of using cells and batteries.

Answer 4

(+) More or less cheap, some are rechargeable, a convenient source of electrical energy
(-) Harmful chemicals

Question 5

Describe rechargeable and non-rechargeable cells

Answer 5

Rechargeable - chemical reactions are reversed when an external current is supplied
Non-rechargeable - reactants are used up, cannot be recharged.

Question 6

What is a fuel cell?

Answer 6

Fuel cells are supplied by fuel and oxygen to oxidise the fuel to generate electricity.