Which of the following factors affects the cell potential (\(E_{cell}\)) in an electrochemical reaction?

• A. The color of the electrodes
• B. The volume of the solution
• C. Concentration of reactants and products
• D. The mass of the beaker

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of cell potential (\(E_{cell}\)): Cell potential is the measure of the driving force behind an electrochemical reaction. It is influenced by the concentrations of reactants and products, as described by the Nernst equation.
2. Recall the Nernst equation: The Nernst equation is given as: $E_{\mathrm{cell}}=E_{\mathrm{cell}}-\frac{\mathrm{RT}/\mathrm{nF}}{\cdot }$. This equation shows that the cell potential depends on the concentrations of reactants and products, temperature, and the number of electrons transferred.
3. Evaluate the given options: The color of the electrodes and the mass of the beaker are physical properties that do not influence the electrochemical reaction or the cell potential. Similarly, the volume of the solution does not directly affect \(E_{cell}\) unless it changes the concentration of reactants and products.
4. Focus on the correct factor: The concentration of reactants and products directly affects the cell potential, as shown in the Nernst equation. Changes in concentration alter the reaction quotient, which impacts \(E_{cell}\).
5. Conclude: The correct answer is 'Concentration of reactants and products' because it is the only factor among the options that directly influences the cell potential in an electrochemical reaction.