Question

Assuming the schematics below represent galvanic cells as written, identify the half-cell reactions occurring in each.

(a) Mg(s)│Mg²⁺(aq)║Cu²⁺(aq)│Cu(s)

(b) Ni(s)│Ni²⁺(aq)║Ag⁺(aq)│Ag(s)

Answer 1

The question identifies the half-cell reactions in two galvanic cells, one involving magnesium and copper, and the other involving nickel and silver. Oxidation occurs at the anode, where magnesium and nickel are oxidized, while reduction occurs at the cathode, where copper and silver ions are reduced.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question involves identifying the half-cell reactions in two different galvanic cells. In a galvanic cell, a spontaneous redox reaction occurs, where electrons flow from the anode (where oxidation occurs) to the cathode (where reduction occurs).

Galvanic Cell (a)

For the cell Mg(s)|Mg²⁺(aq)||Cu²⁺(aq)|Cu(s), the half-cell reactions are as follows:

• Anode (oxidation): Mg(s) → Mg²⁺(aq) + 2e⁻
• Cathode (reduction): Cu²⁺(aq) + 2e⁻ → Cu(s)

Galvanic Cell (b)

For the cell Ni(s)|Ni²⁺(aq)||Ag⁺(aq)|Ag(s), the half-cell reactions are:

• Anode (oxidation): Ni(s) → Ni²⁺(aq) + 2e⁻
• Cathode (reduction): Ag⁺(aq) + e⁻ → Ag(s)