3.1 Electrochemical cells

Front

What are electrolytes?

Back

Electrically conducting solutions containing ions.

Front

How can a simple cell be made?

Back

By placing two metals in an electrolyte.

Front

What is another type of cell in electrochemistry?

Back

A cell made using two half-cells (metals in solutions of their own ions).

Front

What is an ion bridge or salt bridge used for?

Back

To link the half-cells and allow ions to move across to complete an electrical circuit.

Front

Can electricity be produced in cells without metal atoms/ions?

Back

Yes, a graphite rod can be used as the electrode in such half-cells.

Front

What determines the voltage produced by different pairs of metals?

Back

The position of elements in the electrochemical series.

Front

How does the electrochemical series affect voltage?

Back

The further apart elements are in the series, the greater the voltage produced.

Front

In which direction do electrons flow in an electrochemical cell?

Back

From the species higher in the electrochemical series to the one lower.

Front

What equations can be written for an electrochemical cell?

Back

Ion-electron equations for the oxidation reaction, the reduction reaction, and the overall redox reactions.

Front

How can the direction of electron flow be deduced in electrochemical cells?

Back

By analyzing the electrochemical series, including those involving non-metal electrodes.