5 Questions
What is electrochemistry?
Electrochemistry is the branch of physical chemistry concerned with the relationship between electrical potential difference and identifiable chemical change.
What are the components involved in electrochemical reactions?
Electrochemical reactions involve electrons moving via an electronically-conducting phase between electrodes separated by an ionically conducting and electronically insulating electrolyte or ionic species in a solution.
How are electrons transferred in electrochemical reactions?
Unlike in other chemical reactions, in electrochemical reactions electrons are not transferred directly between atoms, ions, or molecules, but via an electronically-conducting circuit.
What distinguishes an electrochemical reaction from a conventional chemical reaction?
The phenomenon that distinguishes an electrochemical reaction from a conventional chemical reaction is that electrons are transferred via an electronically-conducting circuit.
Give an example of an electrochemical reaction.
An example of an electrochemical reaction is electrolysis, where a chemical reaction is driven by an electrical potential difference.
Study Notes
Electrochemistry
- Electrochemistry is the study of chemical reactions that involve the transfer of electrons, often resulting in the formation of ions or the release of electrical energy.
Components of Electrochemical Reactions
- Anodes: where oxidation occurs, electrons are lost, and cations are formed
- Cathodes: where reduction occurs, electrons are gained, and anions are formed
- Electrolytes: substances that facilitate the flow of ions between the anode and cathode
- Electrodes: surfaces where the electron transfer takes place
Electron Transfer in Electrochemical Reactions
- Electrons are transferred between species, often resulting in a change in oxidation state
- Oxidation: loss of electrons, resulting in an increase in oxidation state
- Reduction: gain of electrons, resulting in a decrease in oxidation state
Distinguishing Electrochemical Reactions
- Electrochemical reactions involve the transfer of electrons, whereas conventional chemical reactions do not
- Electrochemical reactions often involve the formation of ions or the release of electrical energy
Example of Electrochemical Reaction
- Zinc and copper reaction: Zinc loses electrons (oxidation) to form Zn²⁺ ions, while copper gains electrons (reduction) to form Cu atoms, releasing electrical energy in the process.
Test your knowledge of electrochemistry with this quiz! Explore concepts such as electrical potential difference, chemical change, electron movement, and electrode reactions. Sharpen your understanding of this fascinating branch of physical chemistry.
Make Your Own Quizzes and Flashcards
Convert your notes into interactive study material.
Get started for free
