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Ch.20 - Electrochemistry
Chapter 20, Problem 61b,c

Calculate E°cell for each balanced redox reaction and determine if the reaction is spontaneous as written. b. MnO2(aq) + 4 H+(aq) + Zn(s) → Mn2+(aq) + 2H2O(l) + Zn2+(aq) c. Cl2(g) + 2 F(aq) → F2(g) + 2 Cl(aq)

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Standard Electrode Potential (Ec°ell)

The standard electrode potential, Ec°ell, is a measure of the tendency of a chemical species to be reduced, expressed in volts. It is determined under standard conditions (1 M concentration, 1 atm pressure, and 25°C). A positive Ec°ell indicates a spontaneous reaction, while a negative value suggests non-spontaneity. The overall cell potential is calculated by subtracting the reduction potential of the anode from that of the cathode.
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Balancing Redox Reactions

Balancing redox reactions involves ensuring that both mass and charge are conserved in the reaction. This is achieved by identifying the oxidation and reduction half-reactions, balancing the atoms involved, and adjusting the electrons transferred. The balanced equation allows for accurate calculations of the standard electrode potentials and helps in determining the spontaneity of the reaction.
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Spontaneity of Reactions

A reaction is considered spontaneous if it occurs without external intervention, which can be determined by the sign of the standard cell potential (Ec°ell). If Ec°ell is positive, the reaction is spontaneous as written; if negative, it is non-spontaneous. This concept is crucial in electrochemistry, as it helps predict the feasibility of redox reactions and their practical applications in batteries and electrolysis.
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