The relationship between the concentration of the electrolyte and the cell potential is investigated using the following electrochemical cell represented by the cell notation:
A(s) | A²⁺(aq) || M²⁺(aq) | M(s)
The concentration of M²⁺ is changed and the corresponding emf is measured - NSC Physical Sciences - Question 8 - 2024 - Paper 2
Question 8
The relationship between the concentration of the electrolyte and the cell potential is investigated using the following electrochemical cell represented by the cell... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The relationship between the concentration of the electrolyte and the cell potential is investigated using the following electrochemical cell represented by the cell notation:
A(s) | A²⁺(aq) || M²⁺(aq) | M(s)
The concentration of M²⁺ is changed and the corresponding emf is measured - NSC Physical Sciences - Question 8 - 2024 - Paper 2
Step 1
8.1 Identify the reducing agent in this cell.
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Answer
The reducing agent in the given electrochemical cell is Aluminum (Al). In redox reactions, the reducing agent is the species that donates electrons and gets oxidized.
Step 2
8.2 Determine the concentration of M²⁺(aq) that will produce an emf of 1,87 V.
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Answer
To find the concentration of M²⁺(aq) that yields an emf of 1.87 V, we utilize the Nernst equation:
E=E∘−nFRTlnQ
For this reaction at standard conditions (25°C), the concentration of A²⁺ will influence the concentration of M²⁺. Rearranging the equation will give the concentration as approximately 0.325 mol/dm³ based on the values provided.
Step 3
8.3 How will the concentration of M²⁺(aq) be affected as the cell operates? Choose from INCREASES, DECREASES or REMAINS THE SAME.
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Answer
The concentration of M²⁺(aq) will DECREASE as the cell operates. This is because, as the cell operates, M²⁺ ions are being consumed as they undergo reduction at the cathode.
Step 4
Give a reason for the answer.
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Answer
As the electrochemical cell runs, the reduction process consumes M²⁺ ions to form M(s), thereby decreasing the concentration of M²⁺ in the solution.
Step 5
8.4 Potassium nitrate, KNO₃, is used in the salt bridge (At or M)?
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KNO₃ is used in the salt bridge to maintain electrical neutrality by allowing the flow of K⁺ ions towards the cathode and NO₃⁻ ions towards the anode. Therefore, it can be stated that K⁺ ions move in the salt bridge towards the A(s) (At).