fuel cell

noun

Meaning

An electrochemical device that converts the chemical energy of a fuel, such as hydrogen, directly into electricity through a reaction with an oxidizing agent.

Examples

  • The spacecraft relies on a fuel cell to provide continuous power for its onboard systems.
  • Researchers are working to lower the production costs of the platinum catalysts used in a standard fuel cell.

Synonyms: battery, power source, generator, electrochemical cell