Chapter 18.3, Problem 3RQ

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: Electrochemical potential needs to be explained.

Concept Introduction: Electrolysis is the breakdown of compound’s chemical bonds to create elemental substances. The method involves passing of an electrical current through the electrolyte to be degraded at a different voltage between two electrodes. The electrolyte in which the two electrodes are placed consists of cations and anions.

Answer to Problem 3RQ

The force by which electrons can migrate from reducing agent to an oxidizing agent through an external wire is called electrochemical potential.

Explanation of Solution

An electrical potential is the capacity of moving of an electron from the anode to the cathode in a battery. It depends on the ability to donate electrons from the reducing agent and the ability to gain electrons from the oxidizing agent. If a battery has a reducing agent which releases electrons and an oxidizing agent which can accept electron/s, the movement of electrons takes place with high force through the connecting wire with electrical energy.

Conclusion

To produce an electric current, a battery uses the energy from an oxidation-reduction reaction.