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Electrochemical Cells quiz

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  • What is the main difference between a galvanic (voltaic) cell and an electrolytic cell?
    A galvanic cell is spontaneous and produces electricity, while an electrolytic cell is non-spontaneous and requires an external power source to operate.
  • In a galvanic cell, which electrode is the anode and what process occurs there?
    The anode is the negative electrode where oxidation occurs, meaning it loses electrons.
  • What is the function of the salt bridge in an electrochemical cell?
    The salt bridge allows the movement of neutral ions to maintain charge balance and complete the circuit.
  • Which direction do electrons flow in a galvanic cell?
    Electrons flow from the anode to the cathode.
  • What happens to the mass of the anode and cathode over time in a galvanic cell?
    The anode loses mass as it dissolves, while the cathode gains mass as it plates out.
  • What type of ions typically move toward the anode through the salt bridge?
    Negative ions, such as chloride or nitrate ions, move toward the anode.
  • How does the concentration of positive ions in the cathode solution affect electron movement?
    A higher concentration of positive ions in the cathode solution attracts more electrons, facilitating reduction.
  • What is the relationship between standard cell potential and the likelihood of reduction?
    A higher standard cell potential means reduction is more likely to occur, indicating a stronger oxidizing agent.
  • What variables can be used to predict if an electrochemical cell reaction is spontaneous?
    Gibbs free energy, standard cell potential, and the equilibrium constant can be used to predict spontaneity.
  • In an electrolytic cell, why is an external power source needed?
    Because the reaction is non-spontaneous and electrons must be forced to move against their natural direction.
  • What always occurs at the anode and cathode, regardless of cell type?
    Oxidation always occurs at the anode and reduction always occurs at the cathode.
  • How is line (cell) notation used to represent an electrochemical cell?
    Line notation uses single lines for phase boundaries and a double line for the salt bridge, listing the anode on the left and cathode on the right.
  • What does a double line in line notation represent?
    A double line represents the salt bridge, which separates the two half-cells.
  • How are oxidation states arranged in line notation for an electrochemical cell?
    Higher oxidation states are placed toward the center, and lower oxidation states are on the ends.
  • What does it mean if all variables (Gibbs free energy, cell potential, etc.) are zero or at equilibrium?
    The cell is at equilibrium and represents a dead battery, with no net reaction occurring.