Chapter 11, Problem 98AE

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:Changes occur to $E_{\text{cell}}$ if battery discharges should be determined. Whether battery represents system in equilibrium or not should be determined. Value of $E_{\text{cell}}$ if battery reaches equilibrium should be determined. Similarity and difference between batteries and fuel cells should be determined. Also, hydrogen-oxygen fuel cells should be explained.

Concept introduction: Practical work obtained from constructed cell is always less than theoretical work due to loss of energy from frictional heating in wires. Theoretically, maximum work that can be obtained expression as follows:

  $w_{\text{max}}=-nF{E}_{\text{cell}}^0$

Where,

• $E_{\text{cell}}^0$ is the standard cell potential.
• $n$ is total electrons transferred.