In a hydrogen- oxygen fuel cell
hydrogen diffuses through the cathode.
hydrogen and oxygen are mixed before entering the anode.***
oxygen diffuses through the anode.
oxygen diffuses through the cathode.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fuel_cell
http://www.bluffton.edu/courses/TLC/MontelA/Montel/Alternative_Energy_Website/Fuel_Cell.htm
In a hydrogen-oxygen fuel cell, the flow of gases is as follows:
1. Hydrogen gas is supplied to the cathode side of the fuel cell. This typically involves storing hydrogen in a tank and controlling its flow into the cell.
2. The hydrogen gas then diffuses through the cathode, which is often made of a porous material like carbon paper. This allows the hydrogen molecules to pass through while other substances, such as water vapor, are blocked.
3. On the anode side of the fuel cell, oxygen gas is supplied. It is important to note that in a typical fuel cell setup, hydrogen and oxygen are not mixed before entering the anode. Instead, they are supplied separately. This is crucial to prevent any unwanted reactions or hazards.
4. Oxygen diffuses through the anode, similar to how hydrogen diffuses through the cathode. The anode material allows the oxygen molecules to pass through while restricting the passage of other substances.
5. Inside the fuel cell, hydrogen ions (protons) from the hydrogen gas react with the oxygen molecules and electrons at the catalyst sites on the anode and cathode surfaces. This reaction generates electricity, heat, and water as byproducts.
6. The water produced as a byproduct of the electrochemical reaction is typically in the form of vapor. It can then be removed from the fuel cell to avoid buildup and ensure efficient operation.
So, to summarize, in a hydrogen-oxygen fuel cell, hydrogen diffuses through the cathode, oxygen diffuses through the anode, and hydrogen and oxygen are not mixed before entering the anode.