Nernst Equation Applied to Half-Reactions

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the application of the Nernst equation to calculate the reduction potential of the half-cell reaction Cu/Cu2+ at a specific concentration. It includes aspects of mathematical reasoning and problem-solving related to electrochemistry.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a calculation using the Nernst equation for the half-reaction Cu2+ + 2e- → Cu, claiming to arrive at a reduction potential of 0.45 V.
  • The same participant expresses uncertainty about the correctness of their answer, questioning whether their approach or calculations might be flawed.
  • Another participant offers to connect via email for assistance with additional problems, indicating a collaborative approach.
  • A later reply from the initial poster indicates they resolved their issue by realizing that the reaction quotient (Q) needed to be flipped, suggesting a correction in their understanding of the Nernst equation application.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion reflects an initial uncertainty regarding the calculation, but the later reply suggests that the initial poster found clarity on their own. However, no consensus is reached on the correctness of the initial calculation before this realization.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not clarify the assumptions made in the calculations or the specific conditions under which the Nernst equation is applied, leaving some steps unresolved.

unhip_crayon
Messages
34
Reaction score
0
[SOLVED] Nernst Equation Applied to Half-Reactions

The Nernst equation can be applied to half-reactions.

Calculate the reduction potential (at 25°C) of the half-cell
Cu/Cu2+ (1.9×10-4 M).
(The half-reaction is Cu2+ + 2e- --> Cu. E° = 0.34 V)
0.34-[ (8.314)(298)/ (2)(96485)] * ln(1.9E-4)


This produces an answer of 0.45 V which I am confident is
the correct answer to this question but it says incorrect.
Am I approaching this question wrong, or doing the
calculations wrong?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
kadostan@hotmail.com

add me i did this one already but i need help on another, maybe u can help me, and if u need any maybe i have gotten!:S!
 
Last edited:
^^ sent you an email
 
nevermind...I got it. Forgot Q had to be flipped. Thanks though
 

Similar threads

Chemistry How to apply Nernst equation in this problem?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
Chemistry What does this equation for an electrochemical cell mean?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Chemistry How to find the pH of a galvanic cell (MIT OCW problem set)
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K
Chemistry How Does Electrolyte Type Influence Voltage in Galvanic Cells?
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
4K
Standard Reduction Potential Changes in Regards to Acidity
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
4K
Chemistry "The oxidized species of the couple is very oxidizing". Does this make sense?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
Potential across a battery cell change ion concentrations and electron flow
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
Copper Solubility in Water with pH 5
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
4K
Cell Potential with Nernst Equation
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Chemistry How do we interpret the steps in the algorithm to balance a redox equation?
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K