A voltaic cell is prepared using copper and silver. Its cell notation is shown below. Cu(s) | Cu²⁺(aq) || Ag⁺(aq) | Ag(s)
Which reaction occurs at the cathode?

Question

A voltaic cell is prepared using copper and silver. Its cell notation is shown below. Cu(s) | Cu²⁺(aq) || Ag⁺(aq) | Ag(s) Which reaction occurs at the cathode?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The species on the right side of the cathode half-cell is Ag(s), which is a reduced form of Ag⁺(aq). Therefore, reduction occurs at the cathode and the half-reaction is Ag⁺(aq) + e^- → Ag(s). Choice A and B represent the oxidation half-reaction for Cu, Choice C is the reduction half-reaction for Ag at the anode, and Choice E represents the overall reaction for the cell, but does not specify the oxidation or reduction half-reactions.

A Voltaic Cell Is Prepared Using Copper and Silver