NOVELTY - In a potential distance circuit for a galvanic cell having a gas anode (or cathode) and a counter-cathode (or anode) with a stable electrode potential, in the waiting position the anode and cathode are serially connected, via a diode (D1) in the open direction and optionally a protective resistor (R1), to a load-free circuit so that the diode holds the gas electrode at a stable potential difference from the counter-electrode due to drainage potential.    USE - The galvanic cells are used for hydrogen formation cells, sensors, fuel cells or electrolysis cells, in a single or multiple battery arrangement (all claimed).    ADVANTAGE - The circuit counteracts passivation and corrosion problems when the cell is out of use (in the 'waiting' position), and ensures that the cells are kept in ready-for-use condition while in the waiting position.    DETAILED DESCRIPTION - INDEPENDENT CLAIMS are included for:    (1) a galvanic cell with at least one gas electrode (anode or cathode) and a load-free circuit (in the waiting position) connecting the cell electrodes with a diode and optionally a resistor as above, where the anode and cathode are also connected via a second (working) circuit, overbridging the diode and protective resistor and allowing the working function of the cell; and    (2) a hydrogen forming galvanic cell comprising: a metal or plastics housing divided into two electronically insulated parts (a) and (b); a zinc anode of metal powder, plus conventional additives, in part (a); a reversible hydrogen cathode of Raney nickel (or another nickel-based hydrogen storage alloy) in part (b); paraffin oil (or a liquid mixture of alkanes, alkenes and/or alkadienes) in intimate contact with the cathode in part (b); and an opening to the atrmosphere in part (b), via which gaseous reaction components can be exchanged with the surrounding atmosphere.    DESCRIPTION OF DRAWING(S) - The figure shows a gas generating zinc-hydrogen cell in a permanently installed electrical regulating circuit.    Cell (1)    Diode (D1)    Resistor (R1)    Switch (S1)    Resistance (W1)