Why aren't cell potentials multiplied by coefficients?

In summary, coefficients in a balanced redox reaction represent moles, not electrons transferred, so multiplying by them would result in incorrect values. They are essential in balancing the reaction and cannot be ignored in calculating cell potentials. Coefficients do not affect the overall cell potential, as it is determined by standard reduction potentials and concentrations. The Nernst equation is not affected by coefficients because it calculates non-standard conditions where coefficients do not affect concentrations. Coefficients are always necessary in a balanced redox reaction to ensure equal transfer of electrons and conservation of mass.
  • #1
demonelite123
219
0
Explain why cell potentials are not multiplied by the coefficients in the balanced redox equation. (Use the relationship between delta G and cell potential to do this.)

i know that cell potential is an intensive property but i don't know how to explain why you don't multiply the the cell potentials by the coeffients using delta G.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Do you know the relationship you are asked to use?
 
  • #3
it doesn't specify in the question but I'm pretty sure you use the equation:

delta G = -nFE

n = moles of electrons transferred
F = Faraday
E = cell potential
 
  • #4
please help anyone
 

1. Why aren't cell potentials multiplied by coefficients?

The coefficients in a balanced redox reaction represent the moles of each species involved, not the number of electrons transferred. Therefore, multiplying the cell potentials by the coefficients would result in incorrect values.

2. Can the coefficients in a redox reaction be ignored when calculating cell potentials?

No, the coefficients are essential in balancing the redox reaction and determining the number of moles of each species involved. They cannot be ignored in the calculation of cell potentials.

3. How do coefficients affect the overall cell potential of a redox reaction?

Coefficients do not affect the overall cell potential of a redox reaction. The cell potential is determined by the standard reduction potentials of the species involved and the concentrations of the reactants and products.

4. Why is the Nernst equation not affected by coefficients in a redox reaction?

The Nernst equation is used to calculate the cell potential at non-standard conditions, where the concentrations of the reactants and products may not be 1 M. Coefficients do not affect the concentrations and therefore do not impact the Nernst equation.

5. Are coefficients always necessary in a balanced redox reaction?

Yes, coefficients are necessary in a balanced redox reaction to ensure that the number of electrons transferred in the oxidation and reduction half-reactions are equal. Balancing the reaction also ensures that the law of conservation of mass is followed.

Similar threads

Chemistry How Does Electrolyte Type Influence Voltage in Galvanic Cells?
    • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
2K
Biology Water Potential and Osmosis Potatoes Investigation
    • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
3K
Help to understand reversibility in galvanic cell
    • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
Replies
28
Views
5K
Electromotive force (or E cell?) during charging and discharging
    • Electromagnetism
Replies
19
Views
2K
Potential of hydrogen electrode
    • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
2K
Finding differences amongst a system of differential equations
    • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
Chemistry What is the purpose of redox reactions?
    • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
Replies
18
Views
3K
Why Does Electrical Work Cause Changes in the Internal Energy of a System?
    • Materials and Chemical Engineering
Replies
1
Views
962
Question about potential and current in potentiometer circuit
    • Electromagnetism
Replies
11
Views
2K
I Trying to understand the inner workings of a solar cell
    • Other Physics Topics
Replies
2
Views
708

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top