A galvanic cell is constructed with copper electrodes and Cu²⁺ in each compartment. In one compartment, [Cu²⁺] = 2.4 × 10^-3 M, and in the other compartment, [Cu²⁺] = 3.0 M. Calculate the potential for this cell at 25°C. The standard reduction potential for Cu²⁺ is +0.34 V.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Nernst equation is used to calculate the potential of a galvanic cell under non-standard conditions: E = E° - (RT/nF)ln(Q), where E° is the standard reduction potential, R is the gas constant, T is the temperature in Kelvin, n is the number of moles of electrons transferred in the half-reaction, F is the Faraday constant, and Q is the reaction quotient. For the given cell, E° = +0.34 V, n = 2 (since Cu^2+ gains two electrons to become Cu), T = 298K (25°C + 273), and Q = [Cu^2+]cathode/[Cu^2+]anode = 3.0/2.4×10^-3. Plugging these values into the Nernst equation and solving gives a potential of approximately 0.092 V.

A Galvanic Cell Is Constructed with Copper Electrodes and Cu2+

A Galvanic Cell Is Constructed with Copper Electrodes and Cu²⁺