What is the difference between a non-rechargeable cell and a rechargeable cell?

  • Non-rechargeable cells are designed for single use and cannot be recharged.
  • Rechargeable cells can be recharged and used multiple times.

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What are the equations for the reactions occuring at the positive and negative electrodes of a lithium-ion cell when it is discharging?

Positive electrode: Li+ + CoO2 + e- ➔ LiCoO2

Negative electrode: Li ➔ Li⁺ + e- 

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What are the equations for the reactions occurring at the positive and negative electrodes of an alkaline hydrogen-oxygen fuel cell?

Positive electrode: O2(g) + 2H2O(l) + 4e- ➔ 4OH-(aq)

Negative electrode: H2(g) + 2OH-(aq) ➔ 2H2O(l) + 2e-

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What is the overall equation, including state symbols, for the reaction that takes place in a hydrogen-oxygen fuel cell?

2H2(g) + O2(g) ➔ 2H2O(l)

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What are the advantages of using fuel cells in vehicles compared to internal combustion engines?

The advantages of using fuel cells in vehicles are:

  1. Higher efficiency - Fuel cells convert more of their available energy into kinetic energy.
  2. Clean emissions - The only by-product of fuel cells is water.
  3. No recharging required - Fuel cells generate electricity continuously as long as reactants are supplied.

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How does a fuel cell produce electricity?

Fuel cells use the energy from a chemical reaction between a fuel (e.g. hydrogen) and oxygen to produce electricity.


Fuel cells operates continuously as long as fuel and oxygen are supplied.

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What are the disadvantages of using fuel cells in vehicles compared to internal combustion engines?

The disadvantages of using fuel cells in vehicles are:

  1. Energy-intensive reactant production - Producing hydrogen and oxygen requires significant energy, often from fossil fuels.
  2. Flammability concerns - Hydrogen gas is highly flammable, requiring careful handling and storage.

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