Chapter 23, Problem 61E

Interpretation Introduction

(a)

Interpretation:

The equations for the dissolution and oxidation-reduction reactions should be written.

Concept introduction:

Silver have two stable oxidation states as +1 and +2. Silver has higher reduction potentials than H⁺. Silver is durable and resistant to corrosion. Silver is a group 11 metal and does not react with HCl. But Ag and Cu can react with concentrated sulfuric or nitric acid.

Interpretation Introduction

(b)

Interpretation:

It should be shown that the oxidation reduction reaction is indeed spontaneous

Concept introduction:

In an electrochemical cell, there are two electrodes that can be observed.

If oxidation takes place on an electrode, that electrode is called anode. The species in that electrode remove electrons and itself gets oxidized.

If reduction takes place on an electrode, that electrode is called cathode. The species in that electrode absorbs electrons and itself gets reduced.

The electrode potential of cell can be calculated as follows:

$E^0{}_{\text{cell}}=E^0{}_{\text{cathode}} -E^0{}_{\text{anode}}$

When E⁰_cell is positive the forward reaction is spontaneous.