Physics134 week10 - Coursework Example

A Fuel Cell A fuel cell can simply be described as an electrical cell that is fed by a hydrogen content fuel in order to be synthesized to obtain energy; in electric form and heat. A fuel cell can be distinguished from the conventional cell in that it continuously refilled with the operating fuel so that it doesn’t get exhausted. The basic principal through which a fuel cell operates is in converse to the electrolysis process; thus involves synthesis of hydrogen from the fuel in question, and oxygen into water.

With a simple equation this can be represented by:2H2 (gas) + O2 (gas) 2H2O (l) + energy.Sentiments by Proponents of Fuel CellsThe efficiency of a fuel cell is outstanding since it involves conversion of hydrogen-oxygen components into water and accompanying energy. There are no more energy losses. This makes it operate at an average efficiency of between 50%-60%.A fuel cell is a clean source since there are no environmental pollutants that result from hydrogen as a fuel. It involves sustainable bi-products like water.

A fuel cell is a quiet source of energy contrary to other conventional methods. This alone confirms the fact that minimal energy losses are incurred in the fuel cell. This makes it stand a higher preference from many consumers who find the silence convenient.A fuel cell can be made modular so that it is able to provide energy over a myriad of power demands; ranging from small to large scale consumption.Sentiments by critics of fuel cells.Fuel cell is not cost effective as entails its production in the long run when compared to other alternatives which are cheaper.

It is going to take time before hydrogen fuel enjoys acceptance by the masses since the infrastructure in use by this fuel is limited. Moreover, the hydrogen energy production must rely on the fossil fuel companies which have already existed.Platinum being a a major component in the fuel cell, it will be difficult to obtain it in mass production since its availability is limited.Since most of the institutions that embraced fuel cell technology are auto manufacturers, in the event that they abandon it; the technology will heed new sources of funding, which would not be simple to get.

Work citedLarmine, Junior & Dicks, Andrew (2000) Fuel Cell Systems Explained. John Wiley & Sons.Thomas, Silvans (2000) Powering the Future. John Wiley & Sons.