ok, so i did a lab called: measurements using electrochemical cels and electroplating, and one of the post lab questions asks,if the student fails to dry the electrode, in this case (Cu+2), what effect does it have on the calculated value of Faraday? and what affect does it have on the calculated avogadro's #?, so i am pretty sure it would help decrease the mass even more, and erode the metal even more, because i observed the other electrode (Zn), it it was never washed with distilled water, and then massed, and then put back into H2SO4, and the Zn electrode became very flimsy, and started to break off, which i am assuming is what would happen to the copper? could you tell me if i am right or wrong, and why or why not?
Based on your observations and understanding, it appears that failing to dry the electrode (Cu+2) after electroplating could have a similar effect to what you observed with the zinc electrode. Let's go through your assumption and reasoning to determine if you are right or wrong.
1. Decreased mass: Correct. Failing to dry the electrode properly would result in retaining some moisture on its surface, which would contribute to an increased mass. This excess mass would affect the calculated value of Faraday, as the mass of the electrode plays a crucial role in the Faraday's law of electrolysis equation.
2. Increased erosion: Partially correct. Failing to dry the electrode could potentially enhance the corrosion or erosion of the metal. However, in the case of copper (Cu), it would not necessarily become as flimsy and break off like the zinc (Zn) electrode. Copper is less reactive compared to zinc, so the extent of erosion or breakdown might not be as significant as with the zinc electrode.
3. Effects on Avogadro's number: The calculated Avogadro's number is not directly impacted by drying the electrode. Avogadro's number, which represents the number of atoms or molecules in a mole, is a constant value (6.022 x 10^23). It is determined by experimental methods unrelated to electroplating, and the moisture or drying of the electrode would not affect this fundamental constant.
In summary, your understanding is mostly correct. Failing to dry the copper electrode could affect the calculated value of Faraday due to the increased mass caused by moisture retention. It might potentially contribute to some erosion or corrosion, but not to the extent observed with the zinc electrode. Avogadro's number, however, remains unaffected by the electrode drying process.