Chapter 21.2, Problem 14LC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The cause of the electrical potential of a cell needs to be explained.

Concept Introduction: In an electrochemical process, a redox reaction takes place. Here, two half-reactions occur where in one reaction oxidation takes place and in the other reaction, reduction takes place. The sum of these two-half reactions gives the overall reaction for the process.

In oxidation, the loss of electrons takes place by an element, and its oxidation state increases. Similarly in reduction, the gain of electrons takes place by an element. Here, the oxidation state of the element decreases.

Explanation of Solution

The electrical potential of a cell is the measure of the potential difference between these two half-reactions in the electrochemical cell. This potential difference is due to the movement of electrons from one-half cell to the other. Here, electrons lost by an element during oxidation can be gained by an element undergoing reduction.