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Evaluating chemical and fuel cells

Energy changes • Chemical and fuel cells

Key concepts

What you'll likely be quizzed about

  • Primary cells provide single-use electrochemical reactions and cannot be recharged.
  • Secondary cells allow reversible reactions and can be restored through supplied electrical energy, enabling multiple charge-discharge cycles.
  • Fuel cells continuously convert supplied fuel and oxidant into electrical energy as long as reactants and catalysts are available.
  • Key definitions distinguish between single-use, rechargeable, and continual supply systems, laying the groundwork for evaluation.
  • Limiting factors vary for each type and include reactant availability in fuel cells, electrode and electrolyte deterioration in secondary cells, and finite reactants in primary cells.

Flashcards

Test your knowledge with interactive flashcards

What defines a secondary cell?

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A secondary cell undergoes reversible reactions and accepts electrical energy to restore reactants, allowing multiple charge–discharge cycles.

Key notes

Important points to keep in mind

Match energy density and power density to application requirements.

Higher internal resistance reduces power output and increases heat loss.

Efficiency lowers fuel or charging needs and operational costs.

Rechargeable cells decrease replacement waste but require charging infrastructure and cycle management.

Fuel cells need a continuous supply of reactants; the environmental benefit relies on fuel production conditions.

Catalyst selection impacts cost, efficiency, and resistance to poisoning.

Electrolyte stability and conductivity can limit lifetime and performance.

Higher operating temperatures increase reaction rates but may accelerate degradation and safety risks.

Material selection influences environmental impact and recyclability.

Safety hazards include flammable fuels, electrolyte leaks, and thermal runaway in some chemistries.

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