Question

Write the equation for the half reaction that occurs at the anode in a hydrogen fuel cell under acidic condictions a)H₂(g)→2H⁺(aq)+2e⁻

b) 2H₂(g)→4H⁺(aq)+4e⁻


c) 4H⁺(aq)+4e⁻→2H₂(g)

d) 4H⁺ (aq)+2e⁻→H₂(g)

Answer 1

The half-reaction occurring at the anode in a hydrogen fuel cell under acidic conditions is H₂(g) → 2H⁺(aq) + 2e⁻. In a galvanic cell, the anode is the negative electrode, as it is where oxidation happens, and the cathode is the positive electrode that undergoes reduction.

Step-by-step explanation:

The equation for the half-reaction that occurs at the anode in a hydrogen fuel cell under acidic conditions is H₂(g) → 2H⁺(aq) + 2e⁻. This is an oxidation reaction, where hydrogen gas is oxidized to hydrogen ions, releasing electrons. Therefore, option (a) H₂(g) → 2H⁺(aq) + 2e⁻ is the correct half-reaction at the anode.

For a galvanic cell:

• The anode is where oxidation occurs, and in this case, hydrogen is oxidized.
• The cathode is where reduction occurs, such as Cu²⁺ + 2e⁻ → Cu in a standard hydrogen-copper cell.
• The anode is the negative electrode because it donates electrons, and the cathode is the positive electrode since it accepts electrons.