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The second law of thermodynamics states ...

The second law of thermodynamics states that

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Convential method of converting chemical energy into electrical energy involves three steps
Step I: Chemical energy `rarr` Heat energy
Step II : Heat energy `rarr` Mechanical energy
Step III : Mechanical energy `rarr` Electrical energy
The extent of heat converted into mechanical energy (step II) is limited by the second law of thermodynamics . Hence, the power plants are with only 40% efficiency. But in a fuel cell, chemical energy is directly converted into electrical energy, with a theoretical 100% efficiency.
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