A Brief Summary of Hydrogen Cars
More and more car manufacturers are rolling out. This article aims to address and summarize this new trend in the automotive industry.
How do Hydrogen Fuel Cells Work?
The hydrogen fuel cell consists of two electrodes, an anode and a cathode, separated by an electrolyte. Hydrogen is supplied to the anode, where it is split into protons and electrons. The protons travel through the electrolyte to the cathode, while the electrons are routed around the cell creating an electrical current. At the cathode, oxygen reacts with the protons and electrons to form water. The electric current produced can be used to power an electric motor, which in turn can power the car.
Are Hydrogen Fuel Cells Good for the Environment?
Yes, hydrogen fuel cells are generally considered to be good for the environment. They are a clean source of power, meaning they do not produce any emissions in their operation. The only byproduct of a hydrogen fuel cell is water vapor. Hydrogen fuel cells are also more efficient than traditional fossil fuel-based power sources, meaning they can produce more energy while using less fuel.
What are the Downsides of Hydrogen Fuel Cells?
1. High Cost: Hydrogen fuel cells are still very expensive to produce, making them cost prohibitive for widespread use in passenger vehicles. The price is about four times that of gasoline.
2. Infrastructure: Hydrogen fueling stations are still few and far between, making it difficult to find a place to refuel.
3. Safety: Hydrogen fuel cells produce flammable hydrogen gas, making it difficult to safely transport and store.
4. Efficiency: Hydrogen fuel cells are still not as efficient as internal combustion engines in terms of energy conversion. This means that they need more energy to run than an internal combustion engine.
What are Some Examples of Hydrogen Powered Cars?
