STPM Physical Chemistry: Electrochemistry

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1. The cell diagram for a galvanic cell can be written as follows:

Zn(s) l Zn2+ (aq) ll Cu2+ (aq) l Cu (s)

(a) anode (oxidation reaction) is written on the left of the salt bridge while
the cathode (reduction reaction) is written on the right of the salt bridge.

(b) Eo more negative, act as anode, while Eo more positve, act as cathode.

(c) If both of the reactants and products are ions or gas, inert electrode, Pt is
used.

2. The e.m.f. of a cell formed from two standard electrodes:

Eo cell = Eo (cathode) – Eo (anode) ***

3. If all substances are in their standard conditions, a reaction will happen

spontaneously if the calculated e.m.f > 0 .

4. Nernst Equation:

For a reversible reaction: aA + b B  cC + dD

E = Eocell - ln

At 298 K,

E = Eocell - log10

If calculated E = 0, then, the reversible reaction achieve equilibrium. Hence, the Kc

can be determined.

If calculated E = ∞, then, the reaction almost reach its completion.

5. Faraday’s First Law: The amount of substance produced, deposited or

dissolved at the electrode during electrolysis is directly proportional to the amount
of electricity passed through it.

Amount of substances α Q ; Q = It

Faraday’s Second Law: The amount of substance produced at the electrode is

inversely proportional to its valency.
Amount of substances α