[Electrochemisry] How to find the Cathode and Anode, and oxidation and reduction

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on identifying the anode and cathode in an electrochemical cell involving Cu(NO3)2 and Pb(NO3)2 solutions. The user initially identified copper as the anode undergoing oxidation and lead as the cathode undergoing reduction. However, based on the standard reduction potentials from the Grade 12 Data booklet, the correct identification is that lead is the anode and undergoes oxidation, while copper is the cathode and undergoes reduction. This conclusion is supported by the reactivity series of metals.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electrochemical cells
  • Familiarity with oxidation and reduction processes
  • Knowledge of standard reduction potentials
  • Basic concepts of reactivity series of metals
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the Standard Reduction Potentials of Half Cells in detail
  • Learn how to construct and analyze electrochemical cells
  • Research the principles of oxidation and reduction in electrochemistry
  • Explore the reactivity series of metals and its applications in electrochemistry
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Students studying chemistry, particularly those focusing on electrochemistry, as well as educators looking for clarification on electrochemical cell components and reactions.

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Homework Statement


This is from a lab question, but i think i did it right, i would just like some confirmation. I had to make an electochmical cell for a lab, (actually mutiple ones) but it asks me to find the anode, cathode, and which chemical underwent oxidation and reduction. If you have a solution of Cu(NO3)2 with a copper strip in that solution, and another beaker with a solution of Pb(NO3)2, and a lead strip inside that solution with a salt bridge of KNO3 connecting them, then identify the cathode, anode, and the chemicals that underwent oxidation, and reduction.


Homework Equations


I used the Gr 12 Data booklet that has the Standard Reduction Potentials of Half Cells table in it.


The Attempt at a Solution


I said that the copper was the anode and it underwent oxidation and the lead was the cathode and it underwent reduction.
 
Last edited:
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Any help here would be appreciated. Thanks!
 
Simple reactivity series tells that you must be wrong.
 
ok i got the right answer now thanks a lot!
 

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