Which statement correctly identifies how a lead-storage battery in a car works?
A. The battery acts as a galvanic cell as it provides current to the radio.
B. The battery acts as a galvanic cell as it is recharged by the alternator.
C. The battery acts as an electrolytic cell as it starts the car.
D. The battery acts as an electrolytic cell as it powers the headlights.
I think the answer is a or b.
To identify the correct statement about how a lead-storage battery in a car works, let's examine the options provided.
A. The battery acts as a galvanic cell as it provides current to the radio.
B. The battery acts as a galvanic cell as it is recharged by the alternator.
C. The battery acts as an electrolytic cell as it starts the car.
D. The battery acts as an electrolytic cell as it powers the headlights.
To determine the correct statement, we need to understand the basic principles of galvanic cells and electrolytic cells.
A galvanic cell is an electrochemical cell that converts chemical energy into electrical energy. It is a spontaneous process that generates electricity when a spontaneous redox reaction takes place. In this case, the battery acts as the source of electrical energy, and current flows from the battery to power the radio. However, it is important to note that galvanic cells cannot be recharged.
An electrolytic cell, on the other hand, is a cell that uses electrical energy to drive a non-spontaneous redox reaction. In this case, the battery acts as an electrolytic cell, requiring electrical energy input to initiate a reaction. Options C and D suggest that the battery acts as an electrolytic cell, but it is important to note that starting a car or powering the headlights does not involve non-spontaneous redox reactions.
The correct answer is B. The battery acts as a galvanic cell as it is recharged by the alternator. When the engine is running, the alternator generates electricity and recharges the battery. This process involves a spontaneous redox reaction, and the battery acts as a galvanic cell.
Hence, option B is the correct statement.