Final answer:
To find the Ecell, subtract the smaller standard reduction potential (anode) from the larger one (cathode), so the correct answer is 'a. Larger; smaller.'
Step-by-step explanation:
When you are given the reduction potentials like you are in this passage (Reaction 1 and Reaction 2), you can always find Ecell by taking the larger number and subtracting it by the smaller number. The correct answer is a. Larger; smaller.
To explain this in more detail, in an electrochemical cell, the standard cell potential (E°cell) is calculated by subtracting the standard reduction potential of the anode (E°anode) from the standard reduction potential of the cathode (E°cathode), as the reaction at the cathode is a reduction, and the reaction at the anode is an oxidation. Remember, the cathode has a higher (more positive) reduction potential relative to the anode.
Therefore, Ecell = E°cathode - E°anode. A positive Ecell indicates that the reaction is spontaneous, while a negative Ecell suggests non-spontaneity.