Chapter 21.3, Problem 20LC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The difference between an electrolytic cell and a voltaic cell 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 major differences between voltaic cells and electrolytic cells are explained below:

Voltaic cells	Electrolytic cells
Redox reaction (spontaneous) converts chemical energy to electrical energy.	Redox reaction (non-spontaneous) converts electric energy to chemical energy.
In redox reactions, electrical energy is produced.	Electrical energy is used to produce a chemical reaction.
The positive electrode is the cathode and the negative electrode is the anode.	The anode is the positive electrode and the cathode is the negative.
Cathode and anode electrodes are placed in different containers connected via salt bridges.	Both cathode and anode are placed in the same container containing molten electrolyte solution.
They are used in batteries.	They are used in purification and electroplating methods.