Which of the following accurately.describes a fuel cell vehicle? A. Fuel cell vehicles run on both an internal combustion engine and a backup battery. B. Fuel cell vehicles are able to convert waste oil from the food industry into ethanol, which is burned as a source of power. C. Fuel cell vehicles use hydrogen to generate electricity that runs the motor. D. Fuel cell vehicles generate energy by creating a flow of electrons in a semiconducting material such as silicon
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is:
C. Fuel cell vehicles use hydrogen to generate electricity that runs the motor.
Explanation:
Fuel cell vehicles (FCVs), also known as hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, are an advanced form of transportation that utilize hydrogen as a fuel to generate electricity. Unlike traditional gasoline or diesel-powered vehicles, FCVs do not rely on internal combustion engines. Instead, they use a fuel cell stack to produce electricity through an electrochemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how FCVs work and why they are unique:
- Hydrogen as Fuel:
FCVs are powered by compressed hydrogen gas stored in a tank. Hydrogen is the most abundant element in the universe and can be produced from various sources, including water, natural gas, and biomass. - Electrochemical Reaction:
Inside the fuel cell, hydrogen is split into protons and electrons by a catalyst. The electrons flow through an external circuit, generating electricity to power the electric motor. The protons combine with oxygen (from the air) and electrons at the cathode, forming water as the only byproduct. - Zero Emissions:
The primary advantage of FCVs is that they produce no harmful emissions. Water vapor and heat are the only byproducts, making them environmentally friendly. - Efficiency and Performance:
FCVs are highly efficient compared to internal combustion engines, converting up to 60% of the hydrogen’s energy into usable power. They offer smooth acceleration, quiet operation, and long driving ranges comparable to gasoline vehicles. - Notable Misconceptions:
- Option A is incorrect because FCVs do not rely on internal combustion engines.
- Option B is incorrect as FCVs do not convert waste oil into ethanol.
- Option D describes solar cells, not fuel cells.
Fuel cell vehicles represent a promising step toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to sustainable energy.