How do hydrogen and oxygen produce electrical energy?
A Proton Exchange Membrane fuel cell is made of two plates sandwiched together with a plastic membrane coated with a catalyst. Hydrogen and oxygen (from the air) are fed through channels in the plates on either side of the membrane. The hydrogen and oxygen atoms are attracted to each other; however, only the proton part of the hydrogen atom can pass through the membrane to reach the oxygen. The electron has to take the long way around the membrane to reach the oxygen atom – creating energy in the process. The hydrogen electron is eventually united with the proton and oxygen atom to create water (H2O).
Related Questions
- The machine produces hydrogen and oxygen gas and electrical charges are present on exposed conductors. Are there any operator health or safety hazards to be aware of?
- How is energy involved in the chemical reaction that produces water from hydrogen and oxygen?
- How do hydrogen and oxygen produce electrical energy?
