Which statement concerning galvanic cells is correct?
(A) Oxidation occurs at the anode - HSC - SSCE Chemistry - Question 4 - 2002 - Paper 1
Question 4
Which statement concerning galvanic cells is correct?
(A) Oxidation occurs at the anode.
(B) They are also known as electrolytic cells.
(C) The cathode is assigned a... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Which statement concerning galvanic cells is correct?
(A) Oxidation occurs at the anode - HSC - SSCE Chemistry - Question 4 - 2002 - Paper 1
Step 1
Identify the correct statement concerning galvanic cells.
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Answer
The correct statement is (A) Oxidation occurs at the anode.
In galvanic cells, oxidation indeed takes place at the anode, which is where electrons are lost. The cathode, on the other hand, is where reduction occurs (gain of electrons).
The other options are incorrect as follows:
(B) They are not known as electrolytic cells; those operate differently, requiring an external power source.
(C) The cathode is actually assigned a positive charge in galvanic cells, while the anode is negative.
(D) Galvanic cells generate electrical energy spontaneously and do not require an external power source.