Question

A galvanic (voltaic) cell contains a copper cathode immersed in a copper(ii) chloride solution and a nickel anode immersed in a nickel(ii) chloride solution. the two solutions are connected with a salt bridge. write the balanced equation for the galvanic cell. phases are optional.

Answer 1

We can write the balanced equation for the galvanic cell by using the oxidation and reduction half-reactions. In the anode, Ni(s) is oxidized and produces aqueous Ni2+:
     Ni(s) → Ni2+
while in the cathode, Cu2+ is reduced and deposits copper:
      Cu2+ → Cu(s)
We now balance the charge of each reaction by adding electrons to the side of the equation with the greater charge:
     Ni(s) → Ni2+ + 2 e-
     Cu2+ + 2 e- → Cu(s)
Finally, we add the half-reactions to obtain the overall balanced equation for the galvanic cell:
     Cu2+(aq) + Ni(s) → Ni2+(aq) + Cu(s)