Fuel cells convert the energy from hydrogen directly into electrical energy through what process?

Fuel cells convert the energy from hydrogen directly into electrical energy through a process called electrochemical conversion. Here are the steps:

1. Hydrogen gas (H2) is introduced to the anode of the fuel cell.

2. At the anode, a catalyst (often platinum) facilitates the ionization of hydrogen, which means the hydrogen atom is split into its constituent proton and electron.

3. The proton passes through a proton exchange membrane (PEM), which acts as an electrolyte and only allows protons to pass through.

4. The electron, however, cannot pass through the PEM and is forced to travel along an external circuit to the cathode. This movement of electrons creates an electric current, which can be used to do work (like powering a motor).

5. At the cathode, oxygen gas (O2) is introduced and it combines with the protons and electrons to form water (H2O), which is the only byproduct of this process.

This process is highly efficient and clean, as the only byproduct is water.