Question

The following electrochemical cell simulates the voltaic cell formed by copper and zinc in seawater at pH 7.90 and 25 ºC.Zn | Zn(OH)2 (s) | OH– (aq) || OH– (aq) | Cu(OH)2 (s) | Cu(s) a.Write the balanced equation for the reaction that occurs at the cathode

Answer 1

Answer:

In the given voltaic cell, the reaction occurring at cathode :

$Cu(OH)_2(aq)+2e^-\rightarrow Cu(s)+2OH^-(aq)$

Explanation:

A voltaic cell is an electro-chemical cell which converts chemical energy into electrical energy. It has two electrodes :

• Anode : Where oxidation occurs , that is loosing of electrons.

$M\rightarrow M^{n+}+ne^-$

• Cathode : Where reduction occurs, that is gaining of electrons.

$M^{n+}+ne^-\rightarrow M$

In the given voltaic cell, the reaction occurring at anode:

$Zn(s)+2OH^-(aq)\rightarrow Zn(OH)_2(aq)+2 e^-$

In the given voltaic cell, the reaction occurring at cathode :

$Cu(OH)_2(aq)+2e^-\rightarrow Cu(s)+2OH^-(aq)$