Write the major defects in Voltaic cell.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: The major defects in Voltaic cells include polarization, leakage, deterioration of electrodes, limited cell lifetime, and lower energy efficiency. Polarization occurs when reaction products accumulate on the electrode surfaces, reducing the cell's voltage and efficiency. Leakage of the electrolyte solution or salt bridge can lead to contamination and short-circuiting. The deterioration of electrodes can result from corrosion, mechanical wear, and loss of active material, affecting cell performance. Limited cell lifetime is caused by irreversible changes in electrode materials and electrolyte depletion. Lower energy efficiency results from factors such as internal resistance, electrode polarization, and side reactions, reducing the effectiveness of energy conversion.

Step by step solution

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1. Understanding Voltaic Cells

To identify the major defects in a Voltaic cell, we must first understand its basic structure and principles. A Voltaic cell consists of two electrodes (an anode and a cathode) connected by a wire and an electrolyte solution or salt bridge to facilitate ion flow. The anode is where oxidation takes place, and the cathode is where reduction occurs. These reactions together generate an electric current as electrons flow from the anode to the cathode.
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2. Polarization

One major defect in Voltaic cells is polarization. Polarization occurs when the products of the electrode reactions (such as hydrogen gas or metal ions) accumulate on the surface of the electrodes, leading to a decrease in voltage and efficiency of the cell. This can be minimized by using different materials for the electrode or modifying the surface of the electrode to enhance mass transport.
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3. Leakage

Leakage is another common defect in Voltaic cells. The electrolyte solution or salt bridge can sometimes leak from the container, leading to spillage and possible contamination or short-circuiting. This issue can be addressed by using a well-sealed container or well-designed casing for the cell.
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4. Deterioration of Electrodes

Over time, the electrodes in a Voltaic cell can deteriorate due to a variety of reasons. This can include corrosion, especially for metal electrodes in contact with an electrolyte solution; mechanical wear and tear; and loss of active material. These problems can result in decreased cell performance and eventual cell failure. Protective coatings and better materials can reduce electrode deterioration.
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5. Limited Cell Lifetime

The lifetime of a Voltaic cell is limited primarily by the electrode and electrolyte material. The electrode material can undergo irreversible changes during the redox reactions, and the electrolyte can become depleted as ions are transferred between the anode and cathode. These limitations reduce the usefulness and efficiency of the cell over time. Improvements in materials and electrolyte management systems can extend the lifetime of Voltaic cells.
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6. Lower Energy Efficiency

Voltaic cells are not 100% efficient in converting chemical energy into electrical energy. Some energy is lost as heat, which can be due to factors like internal resistance, electrode polarization, and side reactions. Using improved electrode materials and electrocatalysts, as well as optimizing cell design, can help increase the energy efficiency of Voltaic cells.

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