Question:

Which of the following species acts as reducing agent during working of hydrogen-oxygen fuel cell?

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In fuel cells, the "fuel" (Hydrogen) is always oxidized (reducing agent) and "Oxygen" is always reduced (oxidizing agent).
Updated On: May 14, 2026
  • $\text{H}_2$
  • $\text{O}_2$
  • $\text{H}^+$
  • NaOH
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation


Step 1: Concept

In an electrochemical cell, the reducing agent is the substance that undergoes oxidation at the anode by losing electrons.

Step 2: Meaning

A fuel cell converts chemical energy from a fuel (like hydrogen) into electricity through a chemical reaction with oxygen.

Step 3: Analysis

At the anode, hydrogen gas is oxidized: $2\text{H}_2 + 4\text{OH}^- \rightarrow 4\text{H}_2\text{O} + 4\text{e}^-$. Since hydrogen loses electrons and its oxidation state increases from 0 to +1, it is the reducing agent. Oxygen is reduced at the cathode, making it the oxidizing agent.

Step 4: Conclusion

Hydrogen ($\text{H}_2$) is the species that is oxidized and thus acts as the reducing agent. Final Answer: (A)
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