- Fuel Cell
- An electrochemical device that converts chemical energy directly into electricity.An advanced energy conversion device that converts fuels to power very efficiently and with minimal environmental impact.***A device capable of generating an electrical current by converting the chemical energy of a fuel (e.g., hydrogen) directly into electrical energy. Fuel cells differ from conventional electrical cells in that the active materials such as fuel and oxygen are not contained within the cell but are supplied from outside. It does not contain an intermediate heat cycle, as do most other electrical generation techniques.U.S. Dept. of Energy, Energy Information Administration's Energy Glossary***A device or an electrochemical engine with no moving parts that converts the chemical energy of a fuel, such as hydrogen, and an oxidant, such as oxygen, directly into electricity. The principal components of a fuel cell are catalytically activated electrodes for the fuel (anode) and the oxidant (cathode) and an electrolyte to conduct ions between the two electrodes, thus producing electricity.California Energy Comission. Dictionary of Energy Terms***A device that converts the energy of a fuel directly to electricity and heat, without combustion. Because there is no combustion, fuel cells give off few emissions; because there are no moving parts, fuel cells are quiet.Solar Electric Glossary
Energy terms . 2014.