Understanding Chemical Cells: Questions & Answers

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding chemical cells, specifically focusing on the behavior of electrodes, voltage generation, and the chemistry involved in electrochemical reactions. Participants raise questions about the conditions affecting voltage and the nature of electrode materials.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether a copper wire connected to a multimeter would produce any voltage if it is the only component in the circuit.
  • Another participant inquires if changing the electrode material, such as using a more concentrated solution or different salts, would result in a larger voltage in a zinc-copper setup.
  • A participant proposes that zinc atoms can give up electrons more readily in solution compared to when they are in contact with a copper wire, questioning if pure water could be used as a solvent.
  • There is a question about whether using a zinc electrode instead of a copper electrode would still generate voltage.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express various questions and hypotheses regarding chemical cells, but there is no consensus or resolution on the issues raised. Multiple viewpoints and uncertainties remain present in the discussion.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the conditions under which voltage is generated are not fully explored, such as the specific concentrations of solutions and the nature of the electrodes used. The discussion does not clarify the effects of different solvents on the electrochemical reactions.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for students or individuals interested in chemistry, particularly those studying electrochemistry or working on related projects.

primarygun
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I am trying to understand the chemistry cell thoroughly.
1.If there is only a copper wire connected to a multimeter, there should be no voltage, isn't it?
2. For the set up of a zinc electrode and a copper electrode, will I get a larger voltage by changing the electrode? Such as a more concentrated one, or potassium nitrate instead of magnesium(II) nitrate.
3.Concerning the set-up in no.3, why electrons can be given up by zinc atoms?
My idea: Zinc atom forms ions more readily in solution ( can it be pure water?) than contacted with copper wire.
4. Will there be any voltage if I use the zinc electrode instead copper electrode?
So far, I am learning chemical cells, please tell me some information. Thank you.
 
Chemistry news on Phys.org
Google: electrochemical cells

You will find many good links.
 
Give some helps please. Busy doing a project.
 
http://physchem.co.za/Redox/Cu-Zn.htm
 
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