Chapter 21, Problem 61A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The common feature of redox reactions taking place in voltaic cells and electrolytic cells needs to be explained.

Concept Introduction: In electrochemistry, the relationship between electrical potential differences and potential differences due to chemical change is explained. The two types of cells that can be studied in electrochemistry are electrolytic cells and voltaic cells.

Explanation of Solution

In a voltaic cell, a spontaneous redox reaction takes place due to which a continuous flow of electrons takes place through the conductor. On the other hand, in an electrolytic cell, redox reactions are produced with the help of current. In a voltaic cell, mechanical energy is converted into electrical energy; on the other hand, electrical energy is converted into chemical energy in an electrolytic cell.

The common feature of redox reactions taking place in voltaic cells and electrolytic cells is that in both cases oxidation reaction occurs at the anode and reduction reaction occurs at the cathode. Here, oxidation loss of electrons takes place, and the oxidation state of a species increases. In reduction, the gain of electrons takes place and the oxidation state of a species decreases.