Electrochemistry Review

These flashcards cover key concepts and definitions related to electrochemistry, including voltaic and electrolytic cells, redox reactions, standard electrode potentials, and lithium-ion battery technology.

What is a voltaic cell?

A device that produces electrical current from a spontaneous chemical reaction.

What happens in a redox reaction?

There is a transfer of electrons; it involves oxidation (loss of electrons) and reduction (gain of electrons).

What does the Standard Hydrogen Electrode (S.H.E.) consist of?

An inert platinum electrode in 1 M HCl with H2(g) at 1 bar, where the E° = 0 V.

What is the overall reaction for the electrolysis of water?

2H2O(l) → 2H2(g) + O2(g).

What is the purpose of a salt bridge in a voltaic cell?

To complete the circuit and maintain neutrality.

What does a positive standard electrode potential (E°) indicate?

The species gains electrons more easily than hydrogen ions.

What is the cell potential, Ecell?

The potential difference between two electrodes in a cell.

How is Gibbs free energy (ΔG°) related to cell potential (E° cell)?

ΔG° = -nFE° cell; it indicates the spontaneity of a reaction.

What occurs at the anode of a voltaic cell?

Oxidation, where electrons are lost.

What is the Nernst equation used for?

To relate cell potential (Ecell) to standard cell potential (E° cell) under non-standard conditions.

What occurs during electron flow in a voltaic cell?

Electrons flow spontaneously from the anode to the cathode.

What happens when the concentration of reactants decreases in a concentration cell?

The cell potential (Ecell) decreases as the reaction reaches equilibrium.

What does the term 'intercalation' refer to in lithium-ion batteries?

The movement of lithium ions into vacant sites in a crystal lattice.

What is a characteristic of an electrolytic cell?

It uses electricity to drive a non-spontaneous reaction.