Electrolysis and Corrosion Lab Experiment

Galvanic Cell (Voltaic Cell)

• A galvanic cell is an apparatus that generates electrical energy from redox reactions.
• Redox stands for reduction-oxidation.

Oxidation and Reduction

• Oxidation involves the loss of electrons.
• The substance that loses electrons is called the reducing agent.
• Reduction involves the gain of electrons.
• The substance that gains electrons is called the oxidizing agent.

Mnemonics for Oxidation and Reduction

• OIL RIG (Oxidation Is Loss, Reduction is Gain)
• LEORA (Lose Electron, Oxidation, Reducing Agent)
• GEROA (Gain Electron, Reduction, Oxidizing Agent)

Daniell Cell

• A Daniell cell is a specific arrangement of Zn and Cu electrodes.

Cell Potential

• Cell potential is a shorthand abbreviation of the chemical reactions in a voltaic cell.
• Left side represents oxidation (anode): Zn(s) → Zn2+ (aq) + 2e-
• Right side represents reduction (cathode): Cu2+ (aq) + 2e- → Cu(s)

Experiment Set-up

• Voltmeter measures the difference in electrical potential between the anode and the cathode.
• Salt bridge balances the charge in the electrodes.

Laboratory Safety

• Always wear personal protective equipment.
• Remove papers, notebooks, combustible materials, and excess chemicals from the area.
• Tie back long hair, dangling jewelry, or loose clothing.
• Read chemical labels and handle with care.
• Avoid spills.
• Do not dispose of chemicals in the sink.
• Never touch chemicals with bare hands.

This lab experiment aims to assemble a voltaic cell and illustrate the electrochemical nature of corrosion of iron. It covers redox reactions and galvanic cells.