Alternative Fuels

Question 1

What can be used as an alternative for fossil fuels in transport?

Answer 1

Hydrogen

Question 2

What is a fuel cell?

Answer 2

1. Cell that generates electricity by oxidising fuels electrochemically rather than thru combustion
2. Releases electrical not thermal energy

Question 3

What happens in a hydrogen fuel cell? What is it used in?

Answer 3

1. Oxidation of hydrogen generates voltage and H2O (as a waste product)
2. Cars with electric motors

Question 4

What happens at positive electrode? Equation?

Answer 4

1. Hydrogen pumped in

2. H+ ions forms as H molecules are oxidised

Question 5

What happens at negative electrode? Equation?

Answer 5

1. Oxygen pumped in

2. H2O forms as O2 reacts w H+ ions that moved thru electrolyte from anode

Question 6

What is the advantages of hydrogen fuel cell cars?

Answer 6

1. Reduce CO2 emissions

2. Reduce reliance on fossil fuels

Question 7

What are the disadvantages of hydrogen fuel cell cars?

Answer 7

1. Very expensive
2. Hydrogen used is produced from electrolysis, which used fossil fuels
3. Safety - hydrogen is flammable w concentrations in air