Electrochemistry Questions

[hypnosis3000]

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What would happen if a galvanic cell had a battery attached to it? Would the rate of electron transfer be quicker thus making it a more efficient mechanism?

Practically, how are galvanic and electrolytic cells unique? They both do electroplating, so are they just different means to an end. Obviously, the different means are due to the constraints of the Ered.

Thanks

 

[joshto]

galvanic cells produce electrical energy.
electrolytic cells consume electrical energy.

not sure if that helps.

 

[Phantastic]

Anode = site of oxidation
Cathode = site of reduction

Both cells: e- flows from Anode to Cathode

Galvanic: Anode (-), Cathode (+) = spontaneous flow of e-
Electrolytic: Anode (+), Cathode (-) = nonspontaneous flow of e-

Electrolytic requires an electrical source, e.g. a battery, a galvanic cell, etc.

To show all of this mathematically, just use deltaG = -nFE, and E=E(ox)+E(red)

It is essential that you understand electrochemistry in terms of thermodynamics in my opinion...this will help define the cells and electrodes better.

 

[BerkReviewTeach]

What would happen if a galvanic cell had a battery attached to it? Would the rate of electron transfer be quicker thus making it a more efficient mechanism?

Practically, how are galvanic and electrolytic cells unique? They both do electroplating, so are they just different means to an end. Obviously, the different means are due to the constraints of the Ered.

Thanks

Assuming the battery is attached in series, it would depend on whether it was aligned with or against the elecrtodes. If they are additive (aligned in a complimentary fashion), then the voltages sum together. This becomes an Ohm's law question at this point. V = IR, where R is constant. If the battery opposes the emf, then V goes down causing I to go down, and thus electron transfer would be slower. If the battery compliments the emf, then V goes up causing I to go up, and thus electron transfer would be faster.

As for the differences between galavnic and electrolytic cells, Phantastic did a fantastic job and there's nothing to add to it.

 

[Phantastic]

...Phantastic did a fantastic...

Nice choice of words 🙂

 

[BerkReviewTeach]

Nice choice of words 🙂

Sounded about right for your excellent explanation.