What is the purpose of a salt bridge in a Galvanic cell?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for the function and significance of a salt bridge in a Galvanic cell, which is a type of electrochemical cell. A salt bridge is crucial for maintaining electrical neutrality by allowing the flow of ions between the two half-cells, which helps sustain the flow of electrons through the external circuit.
Answer
Maintain electrical neutrality by allowing ion flow without mixing solutions.
The main purpose of a salt bridge in a galvanic cell is to maintain electrical neutrality by allowing the free flow of ions between the two half-cells without allowing the solutions to mix.
Answer for screen readers
The main purpose of a salt bridge in a galvanic cell is to maintain electrical neutrality by allowing the free flow of ions between the two half-cells without allowing the solutions to mix.
More Information
A salt bridge commonly contains a concentrated, inert salt solution that does not react with the components of the galvanic cell. It helps balance the charge during the cell's operation, which is crucial for the cell's continued function.
Tips
A common mistake is to assume a salt bridge transfers electrons. Instead, it permits ion exchange to maintain charge balance.
Sources
- Salt Bridge - Definition, Function, Types, Preparation, Galvanic Cells - byjus.com
- Why do galvanic cells need a salt bridge? - Socratic - socratic.org
- Voltaic Cells - Chemistry LibreTexts - chem.libretexts.org
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