UPSC Previous Year Question | Prelims GS | 2024

Which one of the following is the exhaust pipe emission from Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles, powered by hydrogen?

  1. Hydrogen peroxide
  2. Hydronium
  3. Oxygen
  4. Water vapour

Answer

Correct Answer

Water vapour

Explanation

In a hydrogen fuel-cell electric vehicle, hydrogen reacts electrochemically with oxygen from the air to generate electricity. The principal reaction product is water, which is released as water vapour or water through the vehicle's exhaust. Hydrogen peroxide is not the normal exhaust product. Hydronium is an ion involved in certain chemical processes, not the vehicle's exhaust emission. Oxygen is a reactant consumed in the fuel cell rather than the principal emission. Hence, option D is correct.

Topics: clean energy, fuel-cell vehicle emissions, hydrogen fuel cells, science and technology