A student constructs a cell and measures a positive voltage
CHEMISTRY · Single correct · AP · Chemistry · Thermodynamics and Electrochemistry · Thermodynamics and Electrochemistry
Problem
A student constructs a Cu∣Cu2+//Ag+∣Ag cell and measures a positive voltage. The student then connects the same electrodes to a power supply that forces the half-reactions to run in the reverse direction. Which of the following best describes the change in electron flow when the power supply is switched on?
(a) Electrons continue to flow from copper to silver because the electrode materials remain the same.
(b) Electrons now move from the silver electrode to the copper electrode, opposite to their original direction.
(c) Electron flow ceases because the external source provides electrons directly to both electrodes.
(d) Electrons still move from copper to silver, but at a faster rate because the power supply supplies additional voltage.