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Date May 2017 Marks available 2 Reference code 17M.3.hl.TZ2.17
Level HL Paper 3 Time zone TZ2
Command term Deduce Question number 17 Adapted from N/A

Question

There are many sources of energy available.

Methanol fuel cells provide a portable energy source. The process can be represented by the overall equation CH3OH(aq) + 3 2 O2(g) → CO2(g) + 2H2O(g).

Deduce the half-cell equations occurring at each electrode during discharge.

[2]
c.i.

Outline the function of the proton-exchange membrane (PEM) in the fuel cell.

[1]
c.ii.

Explain how the flow of ions allows for the operation of the fuel cell.

[2]
c.iii.

Markscheme

Anode (negative electrode):
CH3OH(aq) + H2O(l) → 6H+(aq) + 6e + CO2(g)

Cathode (positive electrode):
3 2 O2(g) + 6H+(aq) + 6e → 3H2O(l)

 

Award [1 max] for correct equations at wrong electrode.

Accept “e” for “e”.

Accept “O2(g) + 4H+(aq) + 4e → 2H2O(l)”.

[2 marks]

c.i.

allows H+/ions pass through/diffuse/move «from anode to cathode but not electrons or small molecules»

 

Accept “acts as a salt bridge”.

[1 mark]

c.ii.

H+/ions pass through/diffuse/move from anode/negative electrode «through membrane» to cathode/positive electrode

H+/ions used to reduce oxygen at cathode/positive electrode

 

Oxygen must be mentioned for M2.

[2 marks]

c.iii.

Examiners report

[N/A]
c.i.
[N/A]
c.ii.
[N/A]
c.iii.

Syllabus sections

Options » C: Energy » C.6 Electrochemistry, rechargeable batteries and fuel cells (HL only)
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Options » C: Energy
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