How Does a 0M Copper Ion Concentration Affect Galvanic Cell Voltage?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the impact of a 0M copper ion concentration on the voltage of a galvanic cell, specifically a Daniell cell. It is established that the Nernst equation can be applied to any electrochemical cell, including the Daniell cell, to calculate voltage. The reaction quotient Q is defined as [Zn2+]/[Cu2+], and while a 0M concentration of copper ions suggests a theoretical voltage of zero, the actual concentration of copper ions in solution is never truly zero due to immediate reactions upon dissolution. Therefore, the voltage will not be infinitely negative but will stabilize at a low value due to the presence of copper ions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of galvanic cells and their components
  • Familiarity with the Nernst equation and its applications
  • Knowledge of electrochemical reactions and reaction quotients
  • Basic principles of ion concentration and its effects on voltage
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  • Research the Nernst equation and its derivation for various electrochemical cells
  • Explore the principles of ion concentration and its influence on galvanic cell performance
  • Study the electrochemical properties of copper and zinc in aqueous solutions
  • Investigate the concept of reaction quotients in electrochemical systems
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This discussion is beneficial for chemistry students, electrochemists, and anyone interested in the principles of galvanic cells and their voltage behavior under varying ion concentrations.

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Homework Statement



I am doing an investigation on the factors that affect the voltage of a galvanic cell (or daniell cell). I have two beakers with zinc and copper strips and zinc sulphate and copper sulphate. How would there be an electrical current produced (significantly lower however) with a 0M concentration of copper ions and a 1M concentration of Zinc ions?

I thought the copper ions attract the electrons, or is it just the copper atoms and then the copper ions pick them up?
 
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Nernst equation.
 
But this equation is used to calculate the voltage in a concentration cell? The daniel cell that I am using is not a concentration cell, but two separate beakers with two different solutions?
 
No, Nernst equation can be used to calculate voltage in any type of electrochemical cell.
 
If I am correct in saying the reaction quotient Q in the daniell cell is [Zn2+]/[Cu2+], Q in his case would be 1/0. So Eo - RT/zF lnQ would be Eo - Infinity? Does this mean the voltage is zero or infinitely negative?
 
No, concentration of copper (II) is not zero. It may be very low, but once you put copper in water it immediatley reacts till the concentration is high enough so that oxidating potential of H+ from water autodissociation equals potential of Cu/Cu2+ system.

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Makes sense; thanks.
 

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