Inside a Hydrogen Fuel Cell

Part of Fuel Cells · Section 2 of 13

DiagramUnit: Energy ChangesGCSE
Cutaway diagram of a hydrogen fuel cell showing the anode (left), polymer membrane (centre), cathode (right), light bulb connected by external circuit, hydrogen molecules entering from left, oxygen from right, and water dripping from the bottom. GCSE Chemistry revision — fuel cells.

Figure 1: Hydrogen fuel cell — H₂ is oxidised at the anode, O₂ is reduced at the cathode, producing water and electricity

This diagram covers Inside a Hydrogen Fuel Cell within Fuel Cells for GCSE Chemistry. Revise Fuel Cells in Energy Changes for GCSE Chemistry with 5 exam-style questions and 6 flashcards. This topic appears regularly enough that it should still be part of a steady revision cycle. It is section 2 of 13 in this topic. Focus on the labels, the relationships between parts, and the explanation that turns the diagram into an exam-ready answer.

Practice questions for Fuel Cells

A simple electrochemical cell is made by placing two different metal electrodes into an electrolyte. Which statement correctly describes what affects the voltage produced?

  • A. The larger the size of the electrodes, the greater the voltage
  • B. The greater the difference in reactivity between the two metals, the greater the voltage
  • C. Two identical metal electrodes always produce a small voltage
  • D. Using a more concentrated electrolyte always increases the voltage
1 markfoundation

Compare a non-rechargeable alkaline battery with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. Give one advantage and one disadvantage of the rechargeable battery.

3 marksstandard

Quick recall flashcards

Write the overall equation for the hydrogen–oxygen fuel cell.
2H₂ + O₂ → 2H₂O Only product: water. No carbon dioxide or air pollutants produced at point of use.
What is a fuel cell?
An electrochemical cell that generates electricity continuously from an external fuel supply (hydrogen) and an oxidant (oxygen). Unlike a battery, it does not run down — it operates as long as fuel is supplied. Only product: water.

Previous

Turning Chemistry Into Electricity

Next

Simple Chemical Cells

5 questions on Fuel Cells: practise free

Instant marking, adaptive difficulty and spaced-repetition flashcards — all aligned to your exam board.

Start revising free →

PrepWise is a trading name of A3M Quality Solutions Limited, registered in England and Wales, company number 14959172. Registered office: 202 Stroud Road, Gloucester, GL1 5LA. ICO registration ZC267069.