Explain how a fuel cell can use a hydrocarbon such as methanol or ...

[Bernana]

Explain how a fuel cell can use a hydrocarbon such as methanol or natural gas for its fuel.
 
  What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

What is the main difference between a phosphoric acid fuel cell (PAFC) and a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC)?
 
  What will be an ideal response?

[memslove]

Answer to Question 1

A reformer is used to obtain hydrogen from the hydrocarbon for the fuel cell. For example, methanol can be separated through a steam reformer process.

Answer to Question 2

The PAFC uses liquid phosphoric acid as the electrolyte whereas the PEMFC uses a solid polymer electrolyte. Both cells use a platinum catalyst although the PEMFC is more tolerant of impurities in fuels. The PAFC also must use corrosion resistant materials because of the acid.