A fuel cell is like a battery powered by a fuel tank. The proposed fuel cells will run on alcohol mixed with water and oxygen derived from the air. The fuel will be supplied in small containers that you slip into your mobile phone or other small electronic appliances. Motorola predicts that the fuel cell will run 10 times longer than current batteries. The only waste emitted by the cell is water vapor.
Researchers predict that commercial use of the tiny fuel cells is two to five years away.
Students can learn more about what a catalyst is in the Chemistry Explorer activity, Add a Catalyst . Have students watch this Fuel Cell Animation . Extending the Problem Students who want to read more about fuel cells can visit Fuel Cells 2000 . This site offers basic information explained in simple language. While the project may be too complex for students to build their own fuel cells, the descriptions and the photos may help them understand what a fuel cell is.