C3 - Getting Energy From Hydrogen Flashcards
What type of reaction is between hydrogen & oxygen?
Exothermic.
Where can you get energy by reacting hydrogen & water? [2]
1) in a combustion engine.
2) in a fuel cell.
What occurs in combustion engines of vehicles?
Hydrogen gas is burned in oxygen.
What are the pros of burning hydrogen gas to power vehicles?
It only forms water so it’s very clean.
What are the cons of burning hydrogen gas to power vehicles? [3]
1) you need a special, expensive engine.
2) need to use energy from another source.
3) hard to store hydrogen safely - it’s explosive.
What is the definition of a fuel cell?
An electrical cell supplied with a fuel & oxygen, that uses energy from the reaction between them to generate electricity.
When were fuel cells developed?
In the 1960s.
Why were fuel cells developed?
To provide electrical power during the space programme.
Are fuel cells better or worse than solar cells and nuclear power and why? [2]
1) more practical than solar cells.
2) safer than nuclear power.
Why is a fuel cell different to a battery? [2]
It doesn’t run down or need charging.
What industry is starting to develop fuel cells?
The car industry.
What are the benefits of fuel cell vehicles?
They don’t produce any pollutants.
What could fuel cells help countries to do?
Become less dependent on crude oil.
Why aren’t fuel cells likely to replace fossil fuels or power stations? [3]
1) hydrogen gas takes up more storage space than liquids like petrol.
2) hydrogen is explosive so is difficult to store safely.
3) hydrogen fuel is either made from hydrocarbons (from fossil fuels) or electrolysis of water (uses electricity from fossil fuels).
What does a reaction between hydrogen & oxygen produce?
Water.
