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Electrochemistry

Galvanic Cell

Chemistry

1- Galvanic Cell

A galvanic cell is a type of electrochemical cell that converts chemical energy into electrical energy. It is also known as a voltaic cell or a battery.

Explanation: In a galvanic cell, the chemical reaction that occurs is spontaneous, and it generates an electric current. The anode is the electrode where oxidation occurs, and the cathode is the electrode where reduction occurs. Electrons flow from the anode to the cathode through an external circuit, while ions flow from one half-cell to the other through a salt bridge or a porous membrane.

Construction:

A galvanic cell consists of two half-cells connected by a salt bridge or a porous membrane. Each half-cell contains an electrode and an electrolyte. The anode is the electrode where oxidation occurs, and it is usually made of a metal that is easily oxidized. The cathode is the electrode where reduction occurs, and it is usually made of a metal that is less easily oxidized. The electrolyte in the anode half-cell contains the oxidizing agent, while the electrolyte in the cathode half-cell contains the reducing agent.

Diagram:

In this diagram, the anode is on the left and the cathode is on the right. The anode is made of zinc, and it is immersed in a solution of zinc sulphate. The cathode is made of copper, and it is immersed in a solution of copper sulphate. The two half-cells are connected by a salt bridge, which allows the flow of ions between the two half-cells. Electrons flow from the anode to the cathode through an external circuit, producing a current.