The thermodynamic efficiency () of a fuel cell operating under standard conditions is theoretically — Electrochemistry Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

The useful electrical work that can be extracted from an electrochemical system is given by the standard Gibbs free energy change ($\Delta G^\circ$). The total thermal energy available from the combustion of the fuel is the standard enthalpy of combustion ($\Delta H^\circ$). Therefore, the thermodynamic efficiency is defined as $\eta = \frac{\Delta G^\circ}{\Delta H^\circ}$.