Final answer:
The standard potential of a galvanic cell with magnesium and copper (I) electrodes is calculated using the standard reduction potentials of Mg to Mg2+ (-2.37 V) and Cu+ to Cu (+0.52 V). The standard potential equals the cathode potential minus the anode potential, yielding +2.89 V at 25 degrees Celsius.
Step-by-step explanation:
Calculating the Standard Potential of a Galvanic Cell
To calculate the standard potential of a galvanic cell composed of magnesium and copper (I) electrodes, we need to consider the standard reduction potentials of each half-reaction. The reaction at the magnesium anode is the oxidation of Mg to Mg2+, which has a potential of -2.37 V, according to the standard reduction potential chart. The reaction at the copper (I) cathode is the reduction of Cu+ to Cu, which has a potential of +0.52 V.
Using the formula:
Ecell = Ecathode - Eanode,
We find the cell potential by subtracting the anode potential from the cathode potential:
Ecell = +0.52 V - (-2.37 V) = +2.89 V.
This gives us the standard potential of the cell at 25 degrees Celsius, which shows the cell can generate a substantial amount of electromotive force, indicating that the reaction is spontaneous.