Different metal ion (aq)/metal (s) half-cells are combined with an In³⁺(aq)/In(s) half-cell to create a galvanic cell at SLC, as shown in the diagram below - VCE - SSCE Chemistry - Question 26 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 26
Different metal ion (aq)/metal (s) half-cells are combined with an In³⁺(aq)/In(s) half-cell to create a galvanic cell at SLC, as shown in the diagram below. The equa... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Different metal ion (aq)/metal (s) half-cells are combined with an In³⁺(aq)/In(s) half-cell to create a galvanic cell at SLC, as shown in the diagram below - VCE - SSCE Chemistry - Question 26 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Which half-cell combinations produce the highest voltage?
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Answer
To determine which half-cell combinations produce the highest voltage when paired with the In³⁺(aq)/In(s) half-cell, we need to compare their standard electrode potentials with the given half-cell potential of −0.34 V. The more positive the electrode potential of a half-cell is, the higher the voltage will be when combined with the In(s) electrode. We consider the standard reduction potentials for each metal ion given in the options.
Step 2
Order the options based on electrode potentials.
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Answer
By analyzing the standard electrode potentials for the metals listed in option C:
Cu²⁺(aq) + 2e⁻ ⇌ Cu(s) with E∘=+0.34 V
Pb²⁺(aq) + 2e⁻ ⇌ Pb(s) with E∘=−0.13 V
Zn²⁺(aq) + 2e⁻ ⇌ Zn(s) with E∘=−0.76 V
This results in a positive cell potential when combined with In(s), making it the highest voltage option. Thus, option C is the correct answer.