Log out Go to App
Go to App

Learning Materials

Features

Discover

Chapter 17: Problem 24

What reaction happens at the cathode of an electrochemical cell?

Short Answer

Expert verified
At the cathode of an electrochemical cell, the reaction that happens is a reduction reaction, where an element or ion gains electrons.

Step by step solution

01

Understand Electrochemical Cells

An electrochemical cell consists of two half-cells. Each half-cell consists of an electrode (either an anode or a cathode) and an electrolyte. The two half cells are connected to each other via a salt bridge.
02

Define Cathode

In an electrochemical cell, the cathode is the electrode where reduction (gain of electrons) takes place. It is connected to the positive terminal of the battery.
03

Describe the Reaction at the Cathode

At the cathode, reduction occurs. This means an element or ion from the electrolyte gains electrons from the electrode. Therefore, the reaction at the cathode would be represented as \( M^{n+} + n_e^- → M \), where \( M^{n+} \) is the oxidized form of the element and \( M \) is its reduced form, \( e^- \) represent electrons.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

  • Full Textbook Solutions

    Get detailed explanations and key concepts

  • Unlimited Al creation

    Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...

  • Ads-free access

    To over 500 millions flashcards

  • Money-back guarantee

    We refund you if you fail your exam.

Start your free trial

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!

One App. One Place for Learning.

All the tools & learning materials you need for study success - in one app.

Get started for free

Most popular questions from this chapter

Explain why a corrosion cell is a galvanic cell.

The standard electrode potential for the reduction of \(\mathrm{Zn}^{2+}(a q)\) to \(\mathrm{Zn}(s)\) is \(-0.762 \mathrm{V}\) . What does this value indicate?

What is a fuel cell?

Manufacturers often claim that their batteries are "heavy duty" or "long lasting." Design an experiment to test the value and efficacy of AA batteries. If your teacher approves, carry out your procedure.

In an electrochemical cell, what role does the porous barrier play? What would happen without it?
See all solutions

Recommended explanations on Chemistry Textbooks

Inorganic Chemistry

Read Explanation

Kinetics

Read Explanation

Nuclear Chemistry

Read Explanation

Physical Chemistry

Read Explanation

Ionic and Molecular Compounds

Read Explanation

Chemical Analysis

Read Explanation
View all explanations

What do you think about this solution?

We value your feedback to improve our textbook solutions.

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.

Sign-up for free