FUEL CELL
\fjˈuːəl sˈɛl], \fjˈuːəl sˈɛl], \f_j_ˈuː_ə_l s_ˈɛ_l]\
Definitions of FUEL CELL
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cell that produces electricity by oxidation of fuel (hydrogen and oxygen or zinc and air); for use in electric cars
By Princeton University
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cell that produces electricity by oxidation of fuel (hydrogen and oxygen or zinc and air); for use in electric cars
By DataStellar Co., Ltd
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Invented in 1854 by the UK physicist William Robert Grove (1811-1896). It produces energy, usually electrical, by converting a chemical substance, like hydrogen. Hydrogen flows through a porous nickel or platinum alloy cathode. The alloy splits the hydrogen into electrons and protons. The electrons pass through an external circuit. The protons pass through a liquid or membrane electrolyte, then pass into a porous carbon anode. Here oxygen is continuously introduced and the process yields water. Such a cell has an 80% efficiency, more than 2x that of any other cell. The drawback is bulk and the need of gases. Currently used in spacecraft and submarines. Exploratory automobile use is in progress.
By Henry Campbell Black
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