A cell is set up with copper and lead electrodes in contact with CuSO₄(aq) and Pb(NO₃) ₂(aq) , respectively, at 25°C. The standard reduction potentials are
Pb²⁺ + 2e^- → Pb E° = -0.13 V
Cu²⁺ + 2e^- → Cu E° = +0.34 V
If sulfuric acid is added to the Pb(NO₃) ₂ solution, forming a precipitate of PbSO₄, the cell potential

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The addition of sulfuric acid leads to the formation of a precipitate of PbSO₄, indicating that the concentration of Pb2+^- ions in the solution has decreased. This will shift the equilibrium of the half-reaction towards oxidation and therefore lead to a decrease in the reduction potential of the Pb electrode. As a result, the overall cell potential will increase.

A Cell Is Set Up with Copper and Lead Electrodes