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Chapter 19: Problem 94

Explain why most useful galvanic cells give voltages of no more than 1.5 to \(2.5 \mathrm{~V}\). What are the prospects for developing practical galvanic cells with voltages of \(5 \mathrm{~V}\) or more?

Short Answer

Expert verified
The voltage of typical galvanic cells usually falls within the 1.5 to 2.5 Volts range due to the standard reduction potentials of the substances used, and their internal resistance. Though it's theoretically possible to create a cell with greater than 5 Volts, it's impractical due to the potential instability of the cell, decompositions of the electrolyte, and cost factor of the substances with high reduction potentials.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding Galvanic Cells

Firstly, it's important to understand what a galvanic cell is. A galvanic cell, or voltaic cell, is an electrochemical cell that derives electrical energy from spontaneous redox reactions taking place within the cell.
02

Reason for 1.5 to 2.5 Voltage for Galvanic Cells

The voltage of a galvanic cell is directly related to the difference in reduction potential between the two half-cells. The voltage is approximately equivalent to the difference in the standard reduction potentials, reported in volts, of the two half-cells. The absolute values of standard reduction potentials usually do not exceed 3 volts hence, after considering losses such as internal resistance, achievable voltages are usually in the range of 1.5 to 2.5 volts.
03

Feasibility of Galvanic Cells with 5V or more

Although possible in theory, in practice, creating galvanic cells with a 5V or higher potential is challenging due to several reasons. It could lead to decomposition of the electrolyte which could potentially make the cell unstable and dangerous. Also, most substances with high reduction potentials are not readily available or are prohibitively expensive, making such cells impractical for common use.

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