Galvanic and Fuel Cells: Principles, Working & Construction
Galvanic Cell: Harnessing Redox Reactions
Among electrochemical cells, a galvanic cell supplies electric current by transferring electrons through a redox reaction. It demonstrates how energy can be harnessed from reactions between elements. Studying the setup and utilization of a galvanic cell to obtain energy is fascinating.
Working Principle
The working of a galvanic cell is straightforward. A chemical reaction makes electric energy available. During a redox reaction, a galvanic cell uses energy transfer between electrons to convert chemical energy into electric energy.
Galvanic cells separate the flow of electrons during oxidation and reduction, causing a half-reaction. Connecting each with a wire creates a path for electron flow, which is essentially a current. This current can flow through a wire to complete a circuit and power devices like televisions or watches.
Construction
To create a galvanic cell, the setup includes two electrodes: a positively charged cathode and a negatively charged anode.
These electrodes are essential components. Reduction occurs at the cathode, while oxidation occurs at the anode. Any two metals can be used to create the chemical reaction.
Fuel Cell: Generating Electricity Through Chemistry
A fuel cell is a device that generates electricity through a chemical reaction.
Working Principle
Every fuel cell contains two electrodes: the anode and cathode. Chemical reactions take place around these electrodes, enabling electricity generation. Electrolytes carry electrically charged particles from the anode to the cathode and vice versa, acting as catalysts to speed up the chemical reaction.
Construction
The chemical reaction begins by introducing hydrogen atoms at the anode. A chemical reaction strips the hydrogen atoms of their electrons, making them positively charged. The remaining negatively charged electrons provide current through wires. Oxygen atoms are introduced at the cathode, combining with the electrons left behind by the hydrogen atoms.
Depending on the cell type, oxygen atoms, along with negatively charged electrons, combine with positively charged hydrogen ions either at the cathode or after traveling through the anode.