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IB Chemistry HL 1.3.5 Fuel Cells Questions

Apply half-equation and cell-comparison reasoning to hydrogen, methanol and microbial fuel cells while evaluating measurements and practical operation.

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Course
Chemistry HL
Level
HL

Exam points

  • Compare fuel cells with primary or rechargeable cells by whether reactants are continuously supplied and energy conversion can continue.
  • Write balanced anode, cathode and overall equations for hydrogen–oxygen, methanol or microbial fuel cells and identify the direction of electron flow where assessed.
  • Use fuel-cell electrochemical measurements to determine ethanol concentration and evaluate supported practical advantages or disadvantages of fuel-cell operation.

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Study 1.3.5—Fuel cells conceptsOpen the corresponding Concept lesson for explanations, examples and exam connections.

IB Chemistry HL 1.3.5 Fuel Cells Questions question 1

[Maximum number: 5]

As well as being burnt, methanol can also be used to provide electricity through a fuel cell. A schematic diagram of such a fuel cell, that depends on the transfer of hydrogen ions between the electrodes, is shown below.

Figure for Question IB Chemistry HL 1.3.5 Fuel Cells Questions question 1 — IB Chemistry HL

Question (a)

(a)

Deduce half-equations for the reactions at the two electrodes and hence the equation for the overall reaction.

Anode (negative electrode):

Cathode (positive electrode):

Overall:

[ 3 ]

Question (b)

(b)

Identify one factor that affects the voltage of a cell and a different factor that affects the current it can deliver.

Voltage:

Current:

[ 2 ]
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