Question

I understand in a fuel cell, that oxidation occurs at the anode where hydrogen gas is split into hydrogen ions and electrons, the former of which travel through the electrolyte. Then, at the cathode, oxygen combines with hydrogen ions and electrons and is reduced. What I don't understand is the point of the hydrogen ions. Describe it.

Answer 1

The hydrogen ions in a fuel cell play a crucial role in the overall operation. They are formed at the anode when hydrogen gas is split and travel through the electrolyte to the cathode. At the cathode, they combine with oxygen and electrons to form water.

Step-by-step explanation:

In a fuel cell, the hydrogen ions (H+) serve an important role in the overall operation of the cell.

When hydrogen gas is split at the anode, it releases hydrogen ions and electrons.

The hydrogen ions then travel through the electrolyte to the cathode. At the cathode, the hydrogen ions combine with oxygen and electrons to form water.

This reaction at the cathode would not be possible without the presence of the hydrogen ions.

The movement of the hydrogen ions through the electrolyte helps to establish the flow of current in the fuel cell.