Chapter 21, Problem 21.23P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The reason behind the fact that the cell does not operates unless the two compartments are external connected to a circuit has to be identified.

Concept Introduction:

An electrochemical cell is a device in which a redox reaction is used to convert chemical energy into electrical energy. Such device is also known as the galvanic or voltaic cell.

Galvanic cell consists of two half-cells. The redox reaction occurs in these half-cells. The half-cell in which the reduction reaction occurs is known as the reduction half-cell, whereas the half-cell in which the oxidation reaction occurs is known as the oxidation half-cell.

The electrons flow from anode to cathode through the external wire of the circuit. A salt bridge is used to complete the cell circuit.

Anode: The electrode where the oxidation occurs is called as an anode. It is a negatively charged electrode.

Cathode: The electrode where reduction occurs is called as a cathode. It is a positively charged electrode.

Redox reaction: Redox reaction is a type of chemical reaction, where both the oxidation and reduction occur at the same time. In a redox reaction, one of the reactant is oxidized and the other is reduced simultaneously.

The electric potential applied onto an electrode determines whether it hosts a reduction or oxidation reaction.