Question

For the following electrochemical reaction: Al3+(aq) + 3e -> Al(s) Eº = -1.66 V E° = 2.87 F2(g) + 2e -> 2F (aq) Calculate Eº for the cell.

Answer 1

Answer: The standard electrode potential of the cell is 4.53 V.

Explanation:

We are given:

$E^o_{(F_2/F^-)}=2.87V\\E^o_{(Al^{3+}/Al)}=-1.66V$

The substance having highest positive $E^o$ potential will always get reduced and will undergo reduction reaction. Here, fluorine will undergo reduction reaction will get reduced.

Aluminium will undergo oxidation reaction and will get oxidized.

Substance getting oxidized always act as anode and the one getting reduced always act as cathode.

To calculate the $E^o_{cell}$ of the reaction, we use the equation:

$E^o_{cell}=E^o_{cathode}-E^o_{anode}$

$E^o_{cell}=2.87-(-1.66)=4.53V$

Hence, the standard electrode potential of the cell is 4.53 V.