Consider the following characteristics of electrolytic cells and galvanic cells - VCE - SSCE Chemistry - Question 7 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 7
Consider the following characteristics of electrolytic cells and galvanic cells.
| Characteristic number | Electrolytic cells | Galvanic cells ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Consider the following characteristics of electrolytic cells and galvanic cells - VCE - SSCE Chemistry - Question 7 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Characteristic 1: cathode is negative
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Answer
In electrolytic cells, the cathode is indeed negative because it attracts cations and is where reduction occurs. In contrast, galvanic cells have a positive cathode, which also attracts anions, allowing for spontaneous redox reactions.
Step 2
Characteristic 2: have non-spontaneous reactions
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Answer
Electrolytic cells require an external electrical source to drive non-spontaneous reactions, making them dependent on an energy input. Conversely, galvanic cells operate spontaneously, providing energy during their electrochemical reactions.
Step 3
Characteristic 3: reduction occurs at the anode
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In electrolytic cells, reduction occurs at the cathode rather than the anode. The anode in electrolysis is where oxidation takes place. For galvanic cells, reduction also happens at the cathode, confirming that the cathode serves as the site of reduction in both cell types.
Step 4
Characteristic 4: produce electricity
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Answer
Electrolytic cells consume electricity to drive chemical reactions. In contrast, galvanic cells generate electricity from spontaneous redox reactions, converting chemical energy directly into electrical energy.
