Question

A galvanic (voltaic) cell has the generic metals X and Y as electrodes. X is more reactive than Y , that is, X more readily reacts to form a cation than Y does. Classify the descriptions by whether they apply to the X or Y electrode.

(a) anode
(b) cathode
(c) electrons in the wire flow toward
(d) electrons in the wire flow away
(e) cations from salt bridge flow toward

Answer 1

In a galvanic cell, the more reactive metal X is the anode where electrons flow away from, and the less reactive metal Y is the cathode where electrons flow toward. Cations from the salt bridge migrate toward the anode, maintaining electrical neutrality.

Step-by-step explanation:

In a galvanic (voltaic) cell, the generic metal X is more reactive than Y, indicating that X acts as the anode where oxidation takes place, and Y acts as the cathode where reduction occurs. The characteristics of the electrodes in a voltaic cell are as follows:

• (a) Anode - X electrode since it is more reactive and readily oxidized.
• (b) Cathode - Y electrode since it is less reactive and reduction occurs here.
• (c) Electrons in the wire flow toward the Y electrode (cathode).
• (d) Electrons in the wire flow away from the X electrode (anode).
• (e) Cations from the salt bridge flow toward the X electrode (anode) because it is the site of oxidation.

These characteristics are essential to the proper functioning of the galvanic cell, ensuring the flow of electrons from the anode to the cathode, and allowing the cell to generate electricity through spontaneous redox reactions.

Answer 2

(a) X electrode

(b) Y electrode

(c) Y electrode

(d) X electrode

(e) Y electrode

Step-by-step explanation:

A galvanic (voltaic) cell has the generic metals X and Y as electrodes. X is more reactive than Y, that is, X more readily reacts to form a cation than Y does.

In the X electrode occurs the oxidation whereas in the Y electrode occurs the reduction.

Oxidation: X(s) → X⁺ⁿ(aq) + n e⁻

Reduction: Y⁺ˣ(aq) + x e⁻ → Y(s)

Classify the descriptions by whether they apply to the X or Y electrode.

(a) anode. Is where the oxidation takes place (X electrode).

(b) cathode. Is where the reduction takes place (Y electrode).

(c) electrons in the wire flow toward. Electrons in the wire flow toward the cathode (Y electrode).

(d) electrons in the wire flow away. Electrons in the wire flow away from the anode (X electrode).

(e) cations from salt bridge flow toward. Cations from the salt bridge flow toward the cathode (Y electrode) to maintain the electroneutrality.