Chapter 6: Fuel cells as a source of energy Flashcards
Fuel cell
The type of electrochemical cell in which the reactants are supplied continuously, allowing continuous generation of electrical energy.
Galvanic cell
Also known as a voltaic cell, device which converts chemical energy into electrical energy.
Hydrogen economy
A proposed system of delivering energy for society using hydrogen as the source of energy
Electrode
A (usually) solid conductor in a half-cell at which oxidation or reduction reactions occur.
Electrolyte
A chemical substance which conducts electric current as a result of dissociation into positively and negatively charged ions, which migrate toward the negative and positive terminals of an electric circuit.
Anode
An electrode at which oxidation reactions occur.
Cathode
An electrode at which reduction reactions occur.
Steam reforming
A process which produces hydrogen, carbon monoxide or other useful products from hydrocarbon fuels such as natural gas.
Biogas
A mixture of gases produced by the breakdown of organic matter in the absence of oxygen. Biogas comprising mainly methane and carbon dioxide.
Adsorb
The process of sticking molecules to the surface of a solid or a liquid.
Absorb
The process of incorporating a substance into the interior of another substance or object such as the absorption of water into a sponge.
Primary cell
A galvanic cell which is non-rechargeable because the products of the reaction migrate away from the electrodes.
Secondary cell
An accumulator or rechargeable cell. Recharging is possible because the products formed as a result of the discharge reactions stay in contact with the electrodes in a convertible form.
