Electrochem

Elements that lose electrons and elements that gain electrons are the basis of electrochemistry.
Ions can transfer
By connecting these elements with a wire, an electric current is generated
This is an oxidation-reduction rxn, so recognizing the half-reactions and balancing the charge is
necessary.
LEO the lion goes GER- lose electron: oxidation; gain electron: reduction
Metals tend to lose electrons and nonmetals tend to gain electrons
Electrochem requires that we expand this to include a metal ion gain an electron to form a less positive
ion
Some elements do this better than others.
Use standard reduction potentials table for solutions at 25 degrees.
Compared to standard electrode (hydrogen) 0.00 volts
Only the reduction half rxn is used
Electrical potential, driving force, on electrons can be calculated- emf (electromotive force) cell
potential
A volt is 1 joule of work per coulomb of charge transferred.
1V=1J/C=emf
1 joule of work is produced or required when 1 coulomb of charge is transferred between 2 points in a
circuit that differ by a potential of 1 volt
The transfer of electrons that are spontaneous releases free energy. These are used in batteries

Voltaic/Galvanic Cell

How a Voltaic/Galvanic Cell Works
Energy released G-
Redox rxn Zn+Cu
2+
Zn
2+
+Cu
Oxidation: Zn Zn
2+
+2e-
Reduction: Cu
2+
+2e-Cu
E
cell
= E
cathode
-E
anode

Anode= (-)
Oxidation: Zn loses 2e-
(oxidized)
Zn
2+
enters solution
Overtime Zn metal decreases
mass
Cathode= (+)
Reduction: Cu
2+
gain 2 e-
(reduced)
Cu
2+
leaves solution
Overtime Cu metal increases
mass
Salt bridge: connects solutions
SO
4
2-
ion travels towards left cell
(anode side) to keep charge
balanced
Completes the circuit