Salt Bridge Functions in Electrochemical Cells

The podcast discusses the role of a salt bridge in an electrochemical cell, focusing on a copper-zinc galvanic cell. It explains the electron flow, reactions at the electrodes, and the resulting concentration imbalances. The salt bridge is crucial for maintaining cell neutrality by allowing ion migration, preventing the reaction from slowing down. The podcast also covers the criteria for selecting appropriate components for the salt bridge, emphasizing solubility and non-reactivity.

What is the primary function of a salt bridge in an electrochemical cell?

• To increase the mass of electrodes

• To maintain electrical neutrality

• To generate electricity

• To speed up the redox reaction

In a copper-zinc galvanic cell, which electrode is oxidized?

• Copper electrode

• Zinc electrode

• Both electrodes

• Neither electrode

What happens to the copper ions in the solution during the reaction?

• They gain electrons and plate onto the electrode

• They lose electrons and dissolve

• They form a precipitate

• They remain unchanged

Why is it important to keep the half-cells neutral in an electrochemical cell?

• To reduce the temperature of the cell

• To increase the voltage output

• To ensure the reaction continues efficiently

• To prevent the electrodes from dissolving

What role do the ions in the salt bridge play?

• They help maintain charge balance

• They participate in the redox reaction

• They increase the reaction rate

• They form a solid precipitate

Which ions migrate towards the anode in a salt bridge?

• Cations

• Neutral molecules

• Electrons

• Anions

Why is Na2SO4 preferred over BaSO4 in a salt bridge?

• BaSO4 is more expensive

• Na2SO4 is more soluble

• BaSO4 is more reactive

• Na2SO4 forms a precipitate

What is a key requirement for the ions in a salt bridge?

• They must increase the cell voltage

• They must be reactive

• They must be insoluble

• They must not form a precipitate

What happens if the salt bridge ions participate in the redox reaction?

• The reaction speeds up

• A precipitate forms

• The electrodes dissolve

• The cell becomes more efficient

What is the consequence of using a slightly soluble salt in the salt bridge?

• It enhances the reaction

• It forms a solid precipitate

• It dissolves completely

• It increases the cell's voltage