Question

Choose which of the following statements are FALSE.

a. One can calculate the cell potential for a reaction by subtracting the reduction half potential of the cathode from the reduction half potential of the anode.
b. Half reaction potentials are traditionally reported for the reduction half reaction.
c. A Species with a higher reduction potential are more likely to undergo oxidation.
d. The reaction is spontaneous.
e. The cell potential is written as negative.
f. The reaction is non-spontaneous.
g. The cell potential is written as negative.

Answer 1

A negative cell potential indicates a non-spontaneous reaction, while a positive cell potential indicates a spontaneous reaction. Therefore, the statement that a reaction with a negative cell potential is spontaneous is false.

Step-by-step explanation:

The cell potential (Ecell) and free energy change (ΔG) of a reaction are critical factors in determining whether a reaction is spontaneous or non-spontaneous. If the cell potential is positive, the reaction is generally spontaneous as written. Conversely, a negative cell potential indicates the reaction is non-spontaneous under standard conditions, and would proceed spontaneously in the opposite direction. A spontaneous reaction is also characterized by a negative free energy change.

In summary, statement (d) "The reaction is spontaneous" is false if the cell potential is negative. Statement (f) "The reaction is non-spontaneous" would be true under those conditions. And statement (g), which asserts "The cell potential is written as negative", can be true depending on the specific details provided for the reaction in question.