Two separate galvanic cells operate under identical
CHEMISTRY · Single correct · AP · Chemistry · Thermodynamics and Electrochemistry · Thermodynamics and Electrochemistry
Problem
Two separate galvanic cells operate under identical, non-standard concentrations giving the same reaction quotient Q<1. Cell X involves a one-electron transfer (n=1), while Cell Y involves a three-electron transfer (n=3). Both cells are warmed from 298 K to 350 K. Which statement correctly describes how the potentials of the two cells respond to the temperature increase?
(a) Cell Y experiences a larger increase in potential than Cell X because the greater number of electrons transferred amplifies the temperature dependence.
(b) Both cells show decreases in potential upon heating because the temperature term subtracts more at higher T.
(c) Cell X experiences the larger increase in potential because the nFRTlnQ term grows with T and it is divided by a smaller n.
(d) Both cells experience identical increases in potential because they have the same reaction quotient Q.