Which cell was used as a power source in the Apollo Space Program? Write the chemical reactions taking place during the anodic and cathodic processes. Mention two advantages of such cells.

The Apollo Space Program primarily used fuel cells as a power source for the command module. These fuel cells were crucial for providing electrical power, drinking water, and the removal of carbon dioxide in the spacecraft. The specific type of fuel cell used was the Apollo Fuel Cell System, which was a hydrogen-oxygen fuel cell.

Here are the chemical reactions taking place during the anodic and cathodic processes in the Apollo Fuel Cell:

Anodic Reaction:
At the anode, hydrogen gas (H2) is oxidized:

2H2 -> 4H+ + 4e-

Cathodic Reaction:
At the cathode, oxygen gas (O2) is reduced:

O2 + 4H+ + 4e- -> 2H2O

Overall Reaction:
The overall reaction for the Apollo Fuel Cell is the combination of the anodic and cathodic reactions:

2H2 + O2 -> 2H2O

Advantages of using fuel cells in the Apollo Space Program:

High Energy Density: Fuel cells have a high energy density compared to other power sources, meaning they can provide a significant amount of electrical power for their size and weight. This is crucial in space missions where every ounce of weight and space is at a premium.

Clean Energy Production: Fuel cells produce electricity through electrochemical reactions without combustion, which means they do not generate harmful emissions or pollutants. This is important in the closed environment of a spacecraft, as it helps maintain a clean and safe atmosphere for the astronauts.

In addition to these advantages, the Apollo Fuel Cell System also provided the benefit of producing drinking water as a byproduct of the fuel cell's operation, which was essential for the astronauts during their missions.