Voltage to a Galvanic Cell (1 Viewer)

[Paroissien]

As in 18c of 2001 HSC
Would you say the oxidation is now occuring at the cathode
or/ has the anode and the cathode switched?

 

[Tommy_Lamp]

The galvanic cell has now become an electrolytic cell. This means that the cathode, which is normally postive, is now negative, hence the half-equations are reversed.

 

[smallcattle]

anode and cathode switched as it become an electrolytic cell thats what i would say

 

[Paroissien]

I understand that, but for an answer you would right oxidation is now occuring at the cathode. Is this technically correct?

 

[smallcattle]

no, oxidation always occur at anode

 

[DAAVE]

The copper is now being reduced

Ie

Cu(2+) + 2e --> Cu and is depositing on the copper cathode.

This means the generator must be pumping electrons into the copper.

 

[sneeble]

Oxidation always occurs at the anode, electrolytic or galvanic. Remember in an electrolytic cell the anode is positive, and the cathode negative (opposite to galvanic).

The Cu electrode is increasing in mass because electrons are flowing into it, making it the cathode of an electrolytic cell, which has a negative charge. The Cu2+ ions in solution are heading toward the anode (negatively charged electrode and cation romance) and accepting the electrons coming from the battery, forming Cu(s) that on the electrode, thereby inreasing the mass.

That's a bit of a long winded explanation, but I think it makes sense.

 

[Tommy_Lamp]

Just look at the original half equations and reverse them, thats all you need to answer the question. The half-equation that gains electrons will increase in mass.

 

[DAAVE]

The Cu2+ ions in solution are heading toward the anode (negatively charged electrode and cation romance)
.

U mean cathode rite? Just that typo makes a bit of a difference...