A galvanic cell is assembled at 298 K using the following half-reactions at their standard states:
Zn²⁺(aq, 1 M) + 2 e⁻ → Zn(s) E° = –0.76 V
Cu²⁺(aq, 1 M) + 2 e⁻ → Cu(s) E° = +0.34 V
Both compartments initially contain 1.0 M solutions of the indicated ions.
(a) Write the balanced overall reaction that occurs spontaneously in the cell, including states of matter.
(b) Calculate the numerical value of the equilibrium constant for the overall reaction at 298 K. Express the answer in scientific notation and include appropriate units or state that the equilibrium constant is dimensionless.
(c) Interpret the calculated equilibrium constant in terms of the relative concentrations of products and reactants when equilibrium is reached.