UNIT – V Energy Sources

Unit-5 Energy Sources

Two mark questions and answers

1. Define nuclear fission. (AU July 2008)

Nuclear fission is defined as “the process of splitting of heavier nucleus into two (or) more smaller
nuclei with simultaneous liberation of large amount of energy”.

2. What is nuclear fusion? Give an example.

Nuclear fusion is defined as “The process of combination of lighter nuclei into heavier nucleus,
with simultaneous liberation of large amount of energy”. Nuclear fusion occurs in sun.
Example:
1 H + 1 H → 2 He + energy
2 2 4

3. Given any two differences between nuclear fission and fusion. (A.U. 2007, Jan 2011, Dec
2014)
Sl.N Nuclear fission Nuclear fusion
o
1 1 It is the process of breaking a heavier It is the process of combination of lighter
nucleus nuclei.
2 2 It emits radioactive rays It does not emit any kind of radioactive
rays
3 3 It occurs at ordinary temperature It occurs at high temperature( > 106 K )

4. What is nuclear chain reaction? (TCY AU July 2008)

A fission reaction, where the neutrons from the previous step continue to propagate and repeat the
reaction is called nuclear chain reaction.

5. What is super critical mass and sub-critical mass of U235 ?

(a) Super critical mass
If the mass of the fissionable material (U235 ) is more than the critical mass, it is called super
critical mass.
(b) Sub-critical mass
If the mass of the fissionable material is smaller than the critical mass, it is called sub-
critical mass.

6. What is nuclear energy?

The energy released by the nuclear fission is called nuclear fission energy (or) nuclear energy.

7. Give any one nuclear fission reaction; mention the factors that impede the nuclear chain
reaction. (A.U.Dec 2007)
92U + 0 n 1 → [92U235 ] → 56 Ba140 + 36 Kr 93 + 3 0 n 1
235

The factors that impede the nuclear chain reactions are

 Some of the neutrons may escape from the surface to the surroundings.
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 Some of the neutrons may be absorbed by U238 present as impurity.

8. What are the types of nuclear fission reaction?
The nuclear fission reactions are of two types.
 Uncontrolled fission reactions – atom bomb
 Controlled fission reactions – nuclear reactor
9. What is a nuclear reactor?
The arrangement or equipment used carry out fission reaction under controlled conditions is called
a nuclear reactor.

10. What are the general components of a nuclear reactor? (AU 2008)
 Fuel rods
 Control rods
 Coolants
 Moderators
 Pressure vessel
 Protective shield
 Turbine
11. What is light water nuclear- power plant?
Light- water nuclear- power plant is the one, in which U 235 fuel rods are submerged in water. Here
the water acts as coolant and moderator.

12. What are moderators? Give some examples.

The substances used to slow down the neutrons are called moderators.
Examples: Ordinary water, Heavy water, Graphite, & Beryllium.

13. What is the major role of pressure vessel in the nuclear reactor?
It withstand the pressure as high as 200 kg/cm2

14. What are fissile nucleides and fertile nucleides? (Jan 2011)
 The fissionable nucleides such as U235 & Pu239 are called fissile nucleides.
 The non-fissionable nucleides such as U238 & Th232 are called fertile nucleides.

15. Mention any two differences of a nuclear reaction and a chemical reaction.
S.No Nuclear reaction Chemical reaction
1 Rapid exothermic reaction Slow reaction
2 Initiated by neutrons Initiated by heat (or) cold

16. What is Breeder reactor?

Breeder reactor is the one which converts non-fissionable material (U238 & Th232 ) into fissionable
material (U235 & Pu239 ).

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17. What is meant by solar energy conversion? How is it done?

Solar energy conversion is the process of conversion of direct sunlight into more useful forms. This
solar energy conversion occurs by the following two mechanisms.
 Thermal conversion
 Photo conversion.

18. What is thermal conversion?

Thermal conversion involves absorption of thermal energy in the form of IR radiation. Solar energy
is an important source for low-temperature heat (temperature below 100 0C), which is useful for
heating buildings, water and refrigeration.

19. Define photo conversion.

Photo conversion involves conversion of light energy directly into electrical energy.

20. What is photo galvanic cell (or) solar cell? (Jan 2010).
 Photo galvanic cell converts the solar energy into electrical energy (energy obtained from
the sun).
 It consists of a p-type semiconductor (such as Si doped with B) and n-type semiconductor
(such as Si doped with P).
 They are in close contact with each other.

21. Explain the applications of solar cells. (Jan 2011)

 Solar cells are used in calculators, electronic watches, radios and TVs.
 Solar cells are superior to other type of cells, because these are nonpolluting and eco-
friendly.
 Solar energy can be stored in Ni-Cd batteries and lead-acid batteries.
 Solar cells can be used to drive vehicles.
 Solar cells, made of silicon, are used as a source of electricity in space craft and satellites.

22. What is wind energy? How is it obtained?

Moving air is called wind. Energy recovered from the force of the wind is called wind energy. The
energy possessed by wind is because of its high speed. The wind energy is harnessed by making use
of wind mills.

23. What are the drawbacks of wind energy?

 Public resists for locating the wind forms in populated areas due to noise generated by the
machines and loss of aesthetic appearance.
 Wind forms located on the migratory routes of birds will cause hazards.
24. What is a battery? How does it differ from a cell? (Dec 2014)
A battery is an arrangement of several electrochemical cells connected in series that can be used as
a source of direct electric current, Thus,
A Cell contains only one anode and cathode
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A Battery contains several anodes and cathodes.

25. What are the important requirements of a battery?

A useful battery should fulfill the following requirements.
 It should be light and compact for easy transport.
 It should have long life both when it is being used and when it is not used.
 The voltage of the battery should not vary appreciably during its use.

26. What is a primary battery? Give an example. (AU 2004, 2005, 2006)
In primary cells, the electrode and the electrode reactions cannot be reversed by passing an external
electrical energy.
The reactions occur only once and after use they become dead. Therefore, they are not chargeable.
Example: Leclanche’s cell.

27. What are secondary cells?

In secondary cells, the electrode reactions can be reversed by passing an external electrical energy.
Therefore, they can be recharged by passing electric current and used again and again. These are
also called storage cells, (or) Accumulators.

28. Write the overall equation for the reaction taking place in an alkaline battery. (AU 2007)
At anode: Zn(s) + 2OH- (aq) → Zn (OH)2(S) + 2e-
At cathode: 2MnO2(s) + H2O(l) + 2e- → Mn2O3(s) + 2OH- (aq)
Over all reaction: Zn(s) +2MnO2(s) + H2O(l) → Zn (OH)2(S) + Mn2O3(s)

29. What are the advantages of alkaline battery over dry battery? (Jan 2011)
 Zinc does not dissolve readily in a basic medium.
 The life of alkaline battery is longer than the dry battery, because there is no corrosion on Zn.
 Alkaline battery maintains its voltage, as the current is drawn from it.

30. Write the cell representation of lead storage cell.

The cell may be represented as;
Pb / PbSO4 // H2SO4 (aq) / PbO2 / Pb

31. Write the charging and discharging reaction of lead accumulator.

Charging
Pb(s) + PbO2(s) + 2 H2SO4 (aq) -----------------> 2PbSO4(s) + 2H2O + Energy
Discharging
32. What are the applications of lead acid storage cell?
 Lead storage cell is used to supply current mainly in automobiles such as cars, buses, trucks,
etc.
 It is also used in gas engine ignition, telephone exchangers, hospitals, power stations, etc.

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33. Describe the lithium battery.

The lithium battery consists of a lithium anode and a TiS 2 cathode. A solid electrolyte, generally a
polymer, is packed in between the electrodes. The electrolyte (polymer) permits the passage of ions
but not that of electrons.

34. Lithium battery is the cell of future, why?

 Its cell voltage is high, 3V.
 Since Li is a light-weight metal, only 7g (1mole) material is required to produce 1 mole of
electrons.
 Since Li has the most negative E0 value, it generates a higher voltage than the other types of
cells.
 Since all the constituents of the battery are solids there is no risk of leakage from the battery.
 This battery can be made in a variety of sizes and shapes.

35. What are fuel cells? (Nov/Dec 2004, Jun2011) (or) What are flow batteries?
Fuel cell is a voltaic cell, which converts the chemical energy of the fuels directly into electricity
without combustion. It converts the energy of the fuel directly into electricity. In these cells, the
reactants, products and electrolytes are continuously passed through the cell. Hence, it is called as
flow battery.
Example: Hydrogen – Oxygen fuel cell
Fuel + Oxygen → Oxidation products + Electricity
36.What are the applications of H2-O2 fuel cell?
 H2-O2 fuel cells are used as auxiliary energy source in space vehicles, submarines or other
military – vehicles.
 In case of H2-O2 fuel cells, the product of water is proved to be a valuable source of fresh water
by the astronauts.

37. What are the components of LIB?

*A positive electrode(Layers of lithium-metal oxide)(cathode)

*A negative electrode( Layers of porous carbon)(anode)

* An electrolyte(polymer gel) (separator)

38. What are the super capacitors?

Super capacitor is a high capacity capacitor with capacitance value much higher than other
capacitor. They store 10-100 times more energy per unit volume and deliver charge much faster
than batteries.

Important Part-B Questions:

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1. Write in brief about nuclear fission reactions (or) Define nuclear fission. Explain its
characteristics. (Jan2012, Jun2009)
Nuclear fission
The process of splitting of heavier nucleus into two (or) more smaller nuclei with simultaneous
liberation of large amount of energy.
Example:
When U 235 is bombarded by thermal neutron (low energy neutron), it splits into two
approximately equal parts with the liberation of a large of energy.
Mechanism of nuclear fission
When U 235is bombarded by thermal neutron unstable U236 is formed. The unstable U236 then divides
into two approximately equal nuclei with the release of neutrons and large amount of energy.
56 Ba + 36Kr93 + 30n1
140

92U + 0n1 ( 92 U236) 54Xe +38 Sr90+20n1

235 144

55Cs + 37Rb90 + 20n1

144

Characteristics of Nuclear fission

 A heavy nucleus ( U 235 (or) Pu 239), when bombarded by slow moving neutrons, split
into two or more nuclei.
 Two or more neutrons are produced by fission of each nucleus
 Large quantities of energy is produced
 All the fission fragments are radioactive, giving off β and γ – radiations
 The atomic weights of fission products ranges from about 70- 160.
 All the fission reactions are self-propagating chain reactions.
 The nuclear chain reactions can be controlled
Multiplication Factor:
 The number of neutrons, resulting from a single fission, is known as the multiplication
factor. When the multiplication factor is less than 1, a chain reaction does not take
place.

2. What is nuclear fusion? Write the differences between nuclear fission and fusion (May / June
2007) (Dec 2014)
Nuclear fusion
Nuclear fusion is defined as the process of combination of lighter nuclei into heavier nuclei with
simultaneous liberation of large amount of energy. Nuclear fusion occurs in sun.
Example
1H + 1H 2 He + energy
2 2 4

S.NO Nuclear fission Nuclear fusion

1. It is the process of breaking a heavier It is the process of combination of lighter
nucleus. nuclei

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2. It emits radioactive rays. It does not emit any radioactive rays.

3. It occurs at ordinary temperature.
4. The mass number and atomic
number of new elements are lower
than that of parent nucleus.
5. It gives rise to chain reaction.
6. It emits neutrons.
7. It can be controlled.
It occurs at high temperature (> 106 k).
The mass number and atomic number of
product is higher than that of starting
elements
It does not give rise to chain reaction
It emits positrons.
It cannot be controlled.

3. What are nuclear chain reactions? Explain how to improve the amount of nuclear energy
with illustration.
Definition
A fission reaction, where the neutrons from the previous step continue to propagate and repeat the
reaction is called nuclear chain reaction.
Illustration
92U + 0n1 56 Ba + 36Kr93 + 30n1
235 140

Each of the three neutrons, produced in the above reaction, Strikes another U 235 nucleus
causing (3×3) 9 subsequent reactions. These 9 reactions further give rise to (3×9) 27 reactions.
This process of propagation of the reaction by multiplication in threes at each fission is called
chain reaction.

Nuclear energy
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The enormous amount of energy released during the nuclear chain reaction of heavy isotope like
U235 or Pu 239 is called nuclear energy. (or) The energy released by the nuclear fission is called
nuclear fission energy (or) nuclear energy.

4. What is a nuclear reactor? Describe the components of a light-water nuclear power plant with
a suitable block diagram. (May / June 2007) (May /June 2006) (or) What are the components
of a nuclear reactor? Write briefly about each component. (Jun2012, Jan2012, Jun2011,
Jun2010, Jun2009, Jan2009) (or) Explain the method of conversion of nuclear energy into
electrical energy in a nuclear reactor (Dec 2014)

Nuclear Reactor or Pile

 The arrangement or equipment used to carry out fission reaction under controlled conditions
is called a nuclear reactor.
Example
 The energy released from the controlled fission of U 235 in a nuclear reactor can be used to
produce steam, which can run turbines and produce electricity.

Components of a nuclear reactor

The main components of the nuclear reactor are,
1. Fuel rods
The fissionable materials used in the nuclear reactor is enriched U235.
Example; U235 or Pu 239
Function: It produces heat energy and neutrons that starts nuclear chain reaction.
2. Control rods
To control the fission reaction, movable rods made of cadmium (or) boron, are suspended
between fuel rods and control the fission reaction by absorbing excess neutrons.
43 Cd + 0n1 43 Cd +γ-ray
113 114

5B + 0n 5B + γ-ray
10 1 11

Examples: 43 Cd 113 , 5B10

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Function: It controls the nuclear chain- reaction and avoids the damage of the reactors
3. Moderators
The substances used to slow down the neutrons are called moderators

Example: Ordinary water, heavy water, graphite, Beryllium.

Function: The kinetic energy of fast moving neutrons (1meV) is reduced to slow neutrons
(0.25eV).
4. Coolants
In order to absorb the heat produced during fission a liquid called coolant.
Example: Water (act as moderator& coolant), Heavy water, liquid metal (Na or K), Air (CO2)
Function: It cools the Fuel core.
5. Pressure vessel
It encloses the core and also provides the entrance and exit passages for coolant.
Function: It withstand the pressure at high as 200 kg/ cm2
6. Protective shield
The nuclear reactor is enclosed in a thick massive concrete shield (more than 10 meters thick).
Function:
The environment and operating personals are protected from destruction in case of leakage of
radiation.
7. Turbine
The steam generated in the heat exchanger is used to operate a steam turbine, which drives a
generator to produce electricity.
Working:
 The heat emitted by fission of U235 in the fuel core is absorbed by the coolant.
 The heated coolant then goes to the heat exchange containing sea water.
 The coolant here, transfers heat to sea water, which is converted into stream.
 The stream drives the turbines, generating electricity.

Pollution: The fission products like Ba139 ,Kr92 cause dangerous environmental problems.
Disposal: The waste is packed in concrete barrels, which are buried deep in the sea.

5. What is breeder reactor? Explain with an example. (Dec 2014)

Definition
Breeder reactor is the one which converts non- fissionable material (U238, Th232) into fissionable
material U235 or Pu 239.
Illustration
92U + 0n1 94Pu + e-
238 239

Non-fissionable Fissionable
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94Pu239 + 0n1 fission products + 30n1

Fissionable
In breeder reactor of the three neutrons emitted in the fission of U 235, only one is used in
propagating the fission chain with U235. The other two are allowed to react with U238. Thus, two
fissionable atoms of Pu239 are produced for each atom of U235 consumed. Therefore, the breeder
reactor produces more fissionable material than it uses

In general, i) The fissionable nucleides such as U235 & Pu239 are called fissile nucleides.
ii) The non – fissionable nucleides such as U238 & Th232 are called fertile nucleides.
6. Give an account on the different methods by which solar energy can be harnessed? (Jun2012,
Jun2010, Jan2010, Jun2009)
Solar cell = Photogalvaniccell :
It is a device used for converting solar energy into electricity. It is made by interconnecting a
large number of photovoltaic cells.
Solar Energy Conversion: It is the process of conversion of direct sunlight into more useful
forms. Conversion may be in two forms. 1. Thermal Conversion. 2. Photo Conversion.
1. Thermal Conversion:
It involves absorption of thermal energy in the form of IR radiation. Temperature below
o
100 C, is useful for heating purpose of water and refrigeration.
Methods: (i).Solar heat collectors.
(ii).Solar water heater.
(i). Solar heat collectors: It consists of natural materials like stones, bricks which can
absorb heat during the day time and release it slowly at night.
Uses: It is used for houses in cold condition.

(ii). Solar Water Heater:

It consists of an insulated box inside of which is painted with black paint. There is a
provision for sun light absorption using a glass lid and store solar heat. Inside the black
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painted, copper coil and cold water is flow in and gets heated and storage in a tank.

2.Photo Conversion:
 It involves conversion of light energy directly into electrical energy.
Methods: Solar Cell.
Solar Cell: Ex: Solar light, solar pump, solar battery.

 It is a device, converting solar energy

directly into electrical energy.

Principle: When solar rays fall on a two layer of semi-conductor devices, a potential
difference between the two layers is produced. This potential difference causes flow of
electrons and produces electricity.

Working:
When the solar ray falls on the top layer and the e-s promoted to the conduction into n- type
semiconductor. The potential difference occurs; it should lead current increasing (i.e) flow e-
s. They are connected with an external circuit, and current is generated.
Applications of Solar Energy :
 Used in calculators,Watches, etc.
 Used to drive Vehicles.
 Used in boilers to produce hot water for domestic and Industrial uses.
 Used for lighting purposes.
 Used as a source power in space crafts and satellites.
 Used for producing hydrogen by hydrolysis of H2O.

Demerits of Solar Energy:

 Huge capital cost.
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 Not available during night and cloudy days. (iii). Storage of energy is not possible.

7. Write a note on wind energy. (Jun2009)

 Moving energy is called Wind.
 Energy recovered from the force of the wind called wind energy.
 The wind energy is harnessed by making use of wind mills.
1.W ind Mills:
 The strikes of blowing wind on blades of the wind
mill make it rotating continuously. The rotational
motion of the blade drives a number of machines
like water pump, flour mills and electric
generators.
 Wind mills are capable of generating about 100 kw
electricity.

2. W ind Farms.
 It is known as the large number of joining wind mills called wind farm. It produces a large
amount of electricity.
 The minimum speed required for working of a wind generator is 15 km/hr
3. Other methods:
 Sky Sail
 Ladder mill.

4. Advantages/ Merits of Wind energy:

 It does not cause any Air pollution.
 It is very cheap and economic.
Disadvantages of Wind energy:
 It produces noise.
 It produces unwanted sound.
 Affects bird’s life.
 Affected to the radio signals.

8. Explain Alkaline Battery with neat diagram and cell reactions.

Anode: Zinc body
Cathode: Carbon rod / Graphite rod
Electrolyte: Powdered KOH, MnO2 in the form of paste.

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Working:
 Alkaline battery consists of electrolyte KOH and a Zinc cylinder filled with
powdered Zn, KOH and MnO2 in the form of paste using starch and water.
 A carbon rod [Graphite] acts as a cathode and it is immersed in the electrolyte in the
centre of the cell.
 The outside cylindrical zinc body acts as an anode.
Cell reactions:
‐
At + 2OH‐ (aq) → Zn(OH)2(s) + 2e

At cathode: 2MnO2(s)+ H2O(l) + 2e‐ → Mn2O3(s) + 2OH‐(aq)

Overall cell reaction:

+ 2MnO2(s) + H2O (l) → Zn(OH)2(s) + Mn2O3(s)

The emf of the cell is 1.5 V.

Advantages:
i. Zinc doesn’t dissolve in a basic medium.
ii. Its life is longer than dry battery because there is no corrosion on Zn.
iii. It maintains its voltage, when the current is drawn from it.
Uses:
 It is used in calculators,watches etc.

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8. Explain the construction and workings of lead acid battery. (May /June 2007) (or) What is
reversible battery? What are storage batteries? Describe the construction and working of
Lead storage battery with reactions occurring during charging and discharging cycles.
(Jun2012, Jan2012, Jun2011, Jun2010, Jun2009)

 This is also a rechargeable battery.

 It consists of number of voltaic cells.
 The cell may be represented as Pb / PbSO4 // H2SO4(aq) / PbO2 / Pb

 Anode-Pb plate
Cathode -PbO 2
Electrolyte:dil.H2SO4.
Working:
 A known number of lead plates are connected with parallel and a number of PbO 2 plates and
also connected in parallel.
 Various plates are separated by insulators like glass fibre.
 The total anodes and cathodes are immersed in dil.H2(SO)4 Solution.
At anode:
Lead is oxidized to Pb2+ ions, which further combines with SO42- forms insoluble PbSO4.

Pb(S) + SO42- (aq) PbSO4(S) + 2e-

At cathode:
PbO2 is reduced to Pb2+ ions which further combines with SO42- forms insoluble PbSO4.

PbO2(S) + 4H+ + SO43- + 2e- PbSO4(S) + 2H2O

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Over all cell reaction during use (discharging):

Pb(s) + PbO2(S) + 2H2SO4(aq) 2PbSO4(S) + 2H2O + Energy

From the above cell reactions it is clear that, PbSO4 is precipitated at both the electrodes and H2SO4
decreases. If the density of H2SO4 falls below 1.2 gm/ml, the battery needs recharging.

Recharging the battery

The cell can be charged by passing electric current in the opposite direction. The electrode reaction gets
reversed.
The net reaction during charging is
2PbSO4(S) + 2H2O + Energy Pb(S) + PbO2(S) + 2H2SO4(eq)

Advantages:
(i). It is made easily.
(ii). It produces very high current.
(iii). Effective one at low temperature.
(iv). Self- discharging rate is low.
Uses:
(i). Used in automobiles like Car, Bus, Van, Lorry, Bike etc
(ii). Used in Hospitals, Power stations, Telephone exchanges

9. Write short notes on lithium batteries. (Jun2011, Jan2010, Jun2009

 Solid state battery

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Construction
 Anode : lithium
Cathode: TiS2
Electrolyte: polymer (permits the passage of ions not electrons)

Working (Discharging)
 When the anode is connected to cathode, Li+ ions move from anode to cathode.
 Anode is Li and cathode is TiS2 and the electrolyte is solid polymer.
 The cathode is a material capable of receiving the Lithium ions and electrons.
At anode: Li(s) Li+ + e-
At cathode: TiS2(S) + e - TiS2-

Overall reaction: Li (S) + TiS2 (S) Li+ +TiS2-

Li+ + TiS2- LiTiS2
Recharging the battery
It is recharged by applying an external current. Emf of Li cells = 3.0V.

LiTiS2 Li+ + TiS2-

Advantages:
(i) Itsemf is high 3.0V.
(ii).It is a light weight material only 7g required for produce 1 mole of e-s.

10. Write notes on lithium sulphur battery.

Rechargeable battery

Construction
 Anode : lithium
Cathode: Graphite
Electrolyte: β- Alumina (NaAl11O17)
Working:
 This solid electrolyte allows the Li+ ions to migrate to equalize the charge, but will not allow the big
poly sulphide product ions.
 This battery is operated at high temperature as Li and S should be in their molten states.

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Various reactions
The various electrode reactions are
At anode: 2Li 2Li + + 2e-

At cathode: S + 2 e- S 2-

Overall reaction: 2 Li + S 2 Li+ + S 2-

The S 2- ions, formed, react with elemental sulphur to form the polysulphide ion.

S2- + nS [Sn+1]2-

Advantages of Li –S battery
1. Li-S battery has light weight unlike the lead acid battery.
2. It possesses a high energy density.
3. It is used in electric cars.

13. What are fuel cells? Explain the construction and working of fuel cells. (or) Describe the
construction and working of H2-O2 fuel cell. (Nov /Dec 2007) What are the fuel cells? Describe
the construction and working of H2-O2 fuel cell. (Jun2012, Jan2012, Jun2011, Jun2010,
Jan2010, Jan2009, Dec 2014)
Fuel Cell:
 Fuel cell is a voltaic cell, which converts the chemical energy of the fuel directly into electricity
without combustion.
 In these cells, the reactants, products and electrolytes pass through the cell continuously

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 Hydrogen + Oxygen Oxidation products + Electricity

(Fuel) (Oxidizer)
Description
 Anode : porous electrodes
Cathode: porous electrodes
Electrolyte: 25% KOH or NaOH
Working
 The two electrodes are connected through the voltmeter.
 Hydrogen (the fuel) is bubbled through the anode compartment, where it is oxidized.
 The oxygen (oxidizer) is bubbled through the cathode compartment, where it is reduced.

At anode
Hydrogen molecules are oxidized at the anode with the liberation of electrons, which then combine
with hydroxide ions to form water.
2H2 + 4OH- 4H2O + e-
At cathode
The electrons produced at the anode pass through the external wire to the cathode, where it is absorbed
by oxygen and water to produce hydroxide ions.
O2 + 2H2O + 4e- 4OH-
Cell reaction
At anode: 2H2 + 4OH- 4H2O + 4e-
At cathode: O2 + 2H2O + 4e- 4OH-
Over cell reaction: 2H2 + O2 2H2O

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The emf of the cell = 0.8 to 1.0V

Applications of H2-O2 fuel cell

 It is used as auxiliary energy source in space vehicles, submarines or other military – vehicles.
 The product of water is proved to be a valuable source of fresh water by the astronauts.
Advantages
 Fuel cells are efficient (75%).
 Take less time for operation.
 Pollution free.
 Produces drinking water.

******

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