Question

In a Daniell cell, the reaction at the anode involves the oxidation of zinc metal atoms to zinc(2+) ions, and the reaction at the cathode involves the reduction of copper(2+) ions to copper metal atoms. The copper metal atoms get deposited onto the copper electrode. As far as I can see, the copper electrode itself is not involved in the reaction, except as a conductor and a place for the newly formed copper atoms to deposit. Is the electrode involved in any other way? If not, I should be able to replace the copper electrode with a silver electrode as long as it is still in CuSO4 solution. Can I do this?

Answer 1

In a Daniell cell, replacing the copper electrode with silver is possible as both serve as conductors and support for copper deposits. However, this change affects the cell's voltage due to different electrode potentials.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the reaction at the cathode of a Daniell cell, the copper electrode serves mainly as a site for the deposition of copper atoms that have been reduced from copper(II) ions. Technically, one could replace the copper electrode with one made of silver, and it would still allow for the passage of electrons since the silver would also act as a conductor. However, the replacement might alter the electrode potential, and therefore, the overall voltage of your cell, as different metals have different potential values.

When creating a galvanic cell, it's essential to consider the electrode potential of both the anode and cathode materials, as these potentials determine the cell's voltage. Although silver could function as a physical support for the copper deposits and as an electron conduit, the cell would no longer be a Daniell cell, and the behavior of the cell, including its voltage and efficiency, could be quite different.