6.10 Hydrogen Fuel Cells

hydrogen fuel cells

operate like a battery, but reactants (hydrogen) are added continuously

* 2H2 + O2 → energy + 2H2O

hydrogen supply

burn natural gas to extract hydrogen (co2 released)

electrolysis

electric current splits water into hydrogen and oxygen

new ways

photosynthetic algae/bacteria

benefit

80% efficient

benefit

no emissions

drawback

how to obtain hydrogen without expending more energy than harnessing

drawback

distribution network needs to be in place

drawback

vehicles and tanks are more in danger of fire and explosions