Electrochemistry Flashcards
In an electrolytic cell, electrons flow towards the _____
Cathode
Oxidation occurs at the _____
Anode
Reduction occurs at the _____
Cathode
In galvanic/voltaic cells, electrons flow spontaneously from the ____ to the ____
Anode to the cathode
What is the purpose of the salt bridge in a galvanic/voltaic cell?
It helps balance out the charge/control charged buildup that occurs when the anode loses electrons (becomes more positive) and the cathode gains electrons (becomes more negative). Since this is the opposite of the intended charges (anode should be neg, cathode should be pos), the salt bridge helps to maintain the normal charges and keep the cell going. It brings anions to the anode and cations to the cathode
It also completes the loop that allows electrons to travel through the circuit
When looking at the reduction potentials, the formula with the highest reduction potential will be _____ while the formula with the lowest reduction potential will be _____
Reduced
Oxidized