2Al(s) + 3Fe^2+(aq) -----> 2Al^3+(aq) + 3Fe(s)
Draw a voltaic cell reflecting this reaction.
Can't draw pictures on this forum.
I need help with chemistry
I need help with chemistry assignment
To draw a voltaic cell reflecting the given reaction, you need to understand the components and the setup of a voltaic cell. Let's break it down step by step:
1. Identify the components: In the given reaction, there are two half-reactions involved. The aluminum (Al) undergoes oxidation, losing electrons to become Al^3+ ions, while iron (Fe^2+) undergoes reduction, gaining electrons to form solid iron (Fe). Therefore, the components for the voltaic cell will include:
- An aluminum electrode (anode) where oxidation occurs (Al(s) becomes Al^3+(aq))
- An iron electrode (cathode) where reduction occurs (Fe^2+(aq) becomes Fe(s))
- An electrolyte solution that facilitates the movement of ions between the two electrodes. In this case, it will be a solution containing Al^3+ and Fe^2+ ions, such as aluminum sulfate (Al2(SO4)3) and iron sulfate (FeSO4).
2. Setup the cell: The two electrodes (aluminum and iron) should be connected by a wire, allowing the flow of electrons from the anode to the cathode. However, direct contact between the two electrodes would cause a short circuit, so they are kept separate by using a salt bridge or a porous barrier.
3. Add the salt bridge: The salt bridge connects the two compartments of the cell and maintains charge neutrality. It consists of an inert electrolyte, such as a gel containing potassium chloride (KCl). The purpose of the salt bridge is to allow the flow of ions to balance the charges and maintain electrical neutrality.
Now let's put it all together:
Al electrode | Al^3+(aq) || Fe^2+(aq) | Fe electrode
Salt bridge: KCl gel
This representation shows the anode on the left side, the cathode on the right side, and the double vertical lines representing the salt bridge.
Remember, in a voltaic cell, oxidation takes place at the anode, and reduction occurs at the cathode. Electrons flow from the anode to the cathode through the external wire, providing the basis for the cell's electrical current.