1: Identify a Redox Reaction
- Redox = electrons are transferred.
- If oxidation numbers change, it's redox.
- Metals -> ions and ions -> metals = redox clues.
LT 2: Determine What's Oxidized & Reduced
- LEO says GER: Lose Electrons = Oxidation, Gain Electrons = Reduction.
- Oxidation # UP = Oxidation. Oxidation # DOWN = Reduction.
LT 3: Form Basic Half Reactions
- Split into Oxidation (loss of e-) and Reduction (gain of e-).
LT 4: Write & Balance Half Reactions
- Balance atoms -> O (H2O) -> H (H+) -> Charge (e-).
LT 5: Calculate Ecell
Ecell = Ecathode - Eanode
- Positive Ecell = spontaneous.
- Anode: oxidation; Cathode: reduction.
LT 6: Set Up a Galvanic Cell
- Converts chemical to electrical energy.
- Anode (oxidation, negative), Cathode (reduction, positive), Salt bridge.
- Electrons flow Anode -> Cathode.
LT 7: Electrolytic Cell & Electroplating
- Uses electric power to force non-spontaneous reactions.
- Anode = oxidation, Cathode = reduction (but needs power source).
LT 8: Equilibrium, Gibbs, and Ecell
Delta G = -nFEcell
- Positive Ecell -> Negative Delta G -> K > 1 (spontaneous)
- Negative Ecell -> Positive Delta G -> K < 1 (non-spontaneous)
Quick Summary Table
Positive Ecell? Spontaneous, Delta G negative, K > 1
Negative Ecell? Non-spontaneous, Delta G positive, K < 1