Calculate cell potential when concentrations aren't 1M, but are the same.

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To calculate the cell potential for a Cu2+ 0.5M and Zn2+ 0.5M electrochemical cell, the standard potential is determined using the equation Ecell = E0cell - (RT/nF)lnQ. Since the concentrations are equal, the reaction quotient Q equals 1, leading to lnQ = 0, which simplifies the calculation. This indicates that the concentrations do not affect the final cell potential as both half-reaction potentials are shifted equally. Therefore, the calculated Ecell remains 1.103 V, regardless of the specific concentration values, as long as they are the same. Understanding this concept is crucial for analyzing electrochemical cells under non-standard conditions.
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Homework Statement


Calculate standard potential for a Cu2+ 0.5M, Zn2+ 0.5M cell.

Homework Equations


Ecell = E0cell - (RT/nF)lnQ

The Attempt at a Solution


So, I know at standard conditions it would simply be
Ecell = 0.340 - (-0.763)
Ecell = 1.103

It's the concentrations that are confusing me. If they are the same and no half reactions are multiplied, I get a Q value of 1.
lnQ = ln(1) = 0.
So in this case does it not matter what the concentrations are as long as they are the same?
 
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In this case potentials of both half reactions are shifted by the same amount, so the final result stays the same. It doesn't have to be always this way.
 
Sorry for the delayed thank you, but thank you :)
 
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