How Do You Draw Cell Diagrams Correctly?

[jsmith613]

Homework Statement

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

I always thought you put the electrolyte of one half cell on one side and the other electrolyte on the other side

The answer given is C.
But this includes VO₂⁺ which is not in the initial eqn on the RHS?

 

[Borek]

Try to split the reaction into half reactions.

 

[jsmith613]

try to split the reaction into half reactions.

V³⁺ + H₂O = VO²⁺ + 2H⁺
VO₂⁺ + H₂o = VO²⁺ + 2h⁺

 

[Borek]

They are not balanced yet (you ignored electrons), but you are on the right track.

Do you see why C?

 

[jsmith613]

They are not balanced yet (you ignored electrons), but you are on the right track.

Do you see why C?

Well V³⁺ is oxidised (reducing agent) and VO₂⁺ is reduced (oxidising agent).
I think you are supposed to put the stronger reducing agent on the left side?

 

[Borek]

I think you are supposed to put the stronger reducing agent on the left side?

Isn't it what they did?

 

[jsmith613]

Isn't it what they did?

...of course...I think I just get confused between VO²⁺ and VO₂⁺.

...I guess though this will help me in exams as I will be more aware of what is going on...thanks for helping me :)