What is the Cell Potential for Mg/Mg^2+ and Fe/Fe^2+ Electrodes?

In summary, the cell potential (ECell) of an electrochemical cell with Mg/Mg^2+, and Fe/Fe^2+ electrodes can be calculated by adding the half cell potentials for reduction and oxidation. For this specific case, the potential for Fe^2+ reduction is -0.45V and for Mg^2+ oxidation is -2.37V. Therefore, the cell potential would be -0.45V + -2.37V = -2.82V. The correct answer in the multiple choice options would be B, 1.92.
  • #1
MarcZZ
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Homework Statement



Calculate the cell potential (ECell) of an electrochemical cell with Mg/Mg^2+, and Fe/Fe^2+ electrodes. [Mg^2+] and [Fe^2+] = 1.00 M.

Fe^2+(aq) + 2e^- --> Fe(s) = -0.45V
Mg^2+(aq) + 2e^- --> Mg(s) = -2.37 V

a) 1.90
b) 1.92
c) 1.94
d) 2.82
e) 2.80


Homework Equations



ECell = EReduction + EOxidation

The Attempt at a Solution



I believe the answer is B as I believe because the Mg having a lower value of V will have it's sign changed to form a positive value (oxidation). Is this correct?
 
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  • #2
It is not about changing a sign. It is a about a distance between the half cell potentials - mark them on the number axis and it will be obvious.

Doesn't mean your answer is incorrect.
 

1. What is the formula for calculating cell potential?

The formula for calculating cell potential is: Ecell = Ecathode - Eanode, where Ecathode is the reduction potential of the cathode and Eanode is the reduction potential of the anode.

2. How do you determine the standard cell potential of a reaction?

The standard cell potential can be determined by subtracting the standard reduction potentials of the two half reactions involved in the cell.

3. What is the unit of measurement for cell potential?

The unit of measurement for cell potential is volts (V).

4. Can cell potential be calculated for non-standard conditions?

Yes, cell potential can be calculated for non-standard conditions using the Nernst equation: Ecell = E°cell - (RT/nF)ln(Q), where E°cell is the standard cell potential, R is the gas constant, T is the temperature in Kelvin, n is the number of electrons transferred, F is the Faraday constant, and Q is the reaction quotient.

5. How does temperature affect cell potential?

Temperature can affect cell potential by changing the value of the equilibrium constant (K) in the Nernst equation. As temperature increases, the value of K increases, resulting in a decrease in cell potential. This relationship is known as the Van't Hoff equation.

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