Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

Can water be the chemical I use to create energy using a fuel cell ? If so, what can I power with my fuel cell so I know it works properly?

Hi Liz,

Yes you can make a fuel cell using only water as a source of hydrogen. There are several plans for doing this on the web. Here’s just one example of many: http://sci-toys.com/scitoys/scitoys/ech ... _cell.html

The device requires platinum-coated wire which you can buy online but otherwise you need only simple tools and an inexpensive multimeter. This fuel cell is not very efficient, but I think it could power an LED: http://www.wikihow.com/Build-a-Fuel-Cell

Let us know if you have more questions.

Sybee