Question detail
What does the term 'oxidation' refer to in the context of a hydrogen fuel cell?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Chemical cells and fuel cells (chemistry only)
Question
- A. Gain of electrons
- B. Loss of electrons
- C. Gain of protons
- D. Loss of neutrons
Answer
Loss of electrons
Explanation
In the context of a hydrogen fuel cell, oxidation refers to the loss of electrons by hydrogen atoms during the reaction.
Common mistake
Confusion about oxidation
Students often confuse oxidation with reduction, thinking that oxidation means the addition of oxygen rather than the loss of electrons.
Remember that oxidation involves the loss of electrons, while reduction involves the gain of electrons. In the context of a hydrogen fuel cell, hydrogen is oxidized as it loses electrons to form water.
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