Define the term electrolytic cell - NSC Technical Sciences - Question 5 - 2024 - Paper 2
Question 5
Define the term electrolytic cell.
Write down the NAME or FORMULA of the metal used as the anode.
Which electrode, A or B, is the cathode? Give a reason.
Write do... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Define the term electrolytic cell - NSC Technical Sciences - Question 5 - 2024 - Paper 2
Step 1
Define the term electrolytic cell.
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Answer
An electrolytic cell is an electrochemical cell that converts electrical energy into chemical energy. It facilitates a non-spontaneous redox reaction through the application of an external electrical power source.
Step 2
Write down the NAME or FORMULA of the metal used as the anode.
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Answer
The metal used as the anode is Chromium (Cr).
Step 3
Which electrode, A or B, is the cathode? Give a reason.
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Electrode B is the cathode. The cathode is defined as the electrode where reduction takes place, meaning it is the site where electrons are gained.
Step 4
Write down the half reaction taking place at the following electrodes:
A
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Answer
At electrode A, the half-reaction occurring is:
extCroextCr3++3e−
Step 5
Write down the half reaction taking place at the following electrodes:
B
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At electrode B, the half-reaction occurring is:
extCr3++3e−oextCr
Step 6
What is the purpose of the power source?
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The purpose of the power source is to provide electrical energy necessary to drive the non-spontaneous redox reactions in the electrolytic cell.
Step 7
Why is the DC source preferred to the AC source?
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A DC source is preferred over an AC source to ensure that oxidation and reduction half-reactions do not occur at the same electrode, which would disrupt the electrochemical process.
