Are electron-flow and chemical change inside a dry-cell, separate event?

In summary, the chemical reaction in a dry-cell battery creates both the potential difference between terminals and the free electrons to do work. This chemical reaction is separate from the electron flow that occurs within the circuit, but the two events may affect each other. There is no clear answer as to whether the electron flow contributes to the chemical change inside the battery.
  • #1
Ahmed Abdullah
203
3
We know that the battery itself is a load and electrons flow through it (through the chemical). In a D.C circuit there is always a certain amount of electron-flow within a given time.
Let's assume that, the battery used is a dry-cell battery. Now my question is:-
Does this electron-flow contribute to the chemical change that occurs inside a dry-cell battery? I mean, whether some of the electrons are drawn from the flow and account for the chemical change inside the cell. Or whether electron flow and chemical change inside the battery are distinct event (which may effect each other, but are not same).

I have posted this question before, but got no answer!
 
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  • #2
None to answer!
 
  • #3
It is the chemical reaction in a battery that creates both the potential difference between the terminals and the free electrons to do work.
 

1. What is electron-flow?

Electron-flow refers to the movement of electrons from one atom or molecule to another. In a dry-cell, this movement is responsible for generating an electrical current.

2. How does electron-flow occur in a dry-cell?

In a dry-cell, electron-flow occurs through a chemical reaction between the electrodes and the electrolyte solution. The electrodes, usually made of zinc and carbon, react with the electrolyte solution to produce an excess of electrons at the carbon electrode, which then flow through the external circuit towards the zinc electrode.

3. Is electron-flow the same as electrical current?

Yes, electron-flow and electrical current are two terms used to describe the movement of electrons through a conductor. However, electron-flow specifically refers to the movement of electrons, while electrical current can also include the movement of positive charges.

4. Can chemical change occur without electron-flow in a dry-cell?

No, chemical change and electron-flow are interconnected in a dry-cell. The chemical reaction between the electrodes and electrolyte solution is what produces the flow of electrons, which in turn powers the cell.

5. How does the separation of electron-flow and chemical change affect the performance of a dry-cell?

The separation of electron-flow and chemical change is necessary for a dry-cell to function properly. If the two events were to occur simultaneously, the chemical reaction would quickly deplete the electrodes and the cell would no longer produce a stable electrical current.

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