Consider a galvanic cell constructed from a Cu /Cu half-cell (Cu + 2 e → Cu, ) and a…

CHEMISTRY · Single correct · A Level · Chemistry · Electrode potentials · Electrode potentials

Problem

Consider a galvanic cell constructed from a Cu

^{2+}

/Cu half-cell (Cu

^{2+}

+ 2 e

^{-}

→ Cu,

E^{\circ}=+0.34\,\text{V}

) and a Zn

^{2+}

/Zn half-cell (Zn

^{2+}

+ 2 e

^{-}

→ Zn,

E^{\circ}=-0.76\,\text{V}

). Which statement correctly identifies the electrode that will act as the anode when the cell operates under standard conditions? (a) The Cu electrode is the anode because it has the higher standard reduction potential. (b) Neither electrode can serve as an anode because the overall cell potential would be negative. (c) The Zn electrode is the anode because it is more readily oxidized under standard conditions. (d) The Cu electrode eventually becomes the anode after the cell has been operating for some time and the ion concentrations change.

Related theory

Galvanic Cells
Electrochemistry
Electrochemical Cells

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