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You have studied one of the cells shown below - HSC - SSCE Chemistry - Question 19 - 2005 - Paper 1
Question 19
You have studied one of the cells shown below. Choose ONE of the cells and answer parts (a) and (b). (a) State ONE environmental impact associated with the cell yo... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:You have studied one of the cells shown below - HSC - SSCE Chemistry - Question 19 - 2005 - Paper 1
Step 1
State ONE environmental impact associated with the cell you have chosen.
Answer
One significant environmental impact of Cell X (alkaline battery) is the release of heavy metals, such as cadmium and mercury, into the environment if not disposed of properly. These metals can contaminate soil and waterways, posing risks to human health and wildlife.
Step 2
Describe the chemistry of the cell you have chosen.
Answer
The chemistry of Cell X (alkaline battery) involves an electrochemical reaction between zinc (anode) and manganese dioxide (cathode) with an alkaline electrolyte, typically potassium hydroxide. The overall reaction can be summarized as follows:
- At the anode, zinc is oxidized:
ightarrow ext{Zn}^{2+} (aq) + 2 ext{e}^-$$
- At the cathode, manganese dioxide is reduced:
ightarrow ext{Mn(OH)}_2 (s)$$
The flow of electrons from the anode to the cathode generates electric current, providing power to devices.