Abstract: A fuel cell includes two electrodes of different polarity. A proton-conducting membrane electrolyte is disposed between the two electrodes. At least one of the electrodes has a gas-side surface and an electrolyte-side surface. The electrode has pores which are permeable for a gas from the gas-side surface to the electrolyte-side surface. The pores have respective pore inlet openings and pore outlet openings. The pore inlet openings have a first total area and the pore outlet openings have a second total area smaller than the first total area. As a result of the configuration of the pores, gas can advantageously pass through the electrode more easily. Furthermore, the loss of humidity from the electrolyte is reduced. The fuel cell can be combined with an electromotor to provide an alternative to conventional internal combustion engines, especially in vehicles and rail systems.