What is the function of a salt bridge in a voltaic cell?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the role of a salt bridge in a voltaic cell, which is a critical component in electrochemistry. The salt bridge helps to maintain electrical neutrality in the solutions of the galvanic cell by allowing the flow of ions, thus completing the circuit. It prevents the buildup of charge that could halt the cell's reaction.
Answer
To maintain electrical neutrality and allow the free flow of ions.
The final answer is to maintain electrical neutrality and allow the free flow of ions between the two halves of a voltaic cell.
Answer for screen readers
The final answer is to maintain electrical neutrality and allow the free flow of ions between the two halves of a voltaic cell.
More Information
The salt bridge typically contains an inert electrolyte like KNO3 or KCl, which helps to prevent the buildup of charge on either side of the voltaic cell.
Tips
A common mistake is to think that the salt bridge carries electrons. It only allows the passage of ions.
Sources
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