Question

What is the total reduction potential of a cell in which lithium (Li) is reduced and mercury (Hg) is oxidized? a) 1.86 V b) 3.90 V c) -3.90 V d) -1.86 V

Answer 1

The total reduction potential of the cell in which lithium is reduced and mercury is oxidized is -3.90 V.

Step-by-step explanation:

In order to determine the total reduction potential of a cell in which lithium (Li) is reduced and mercury (Hg) is oxidized, we need to look at the individual reduction potentials of each half-reaction. The standard reduction potential for the reduction of Li is -3.04 V and the standard reduction potential for the oxidation of Hg is +0.851 V. To calculate the total reduction potential, we subtract the oxidation potential from the reduction potential. In this case, -3.04 V - (+0.851 V) = -3.891 V. Therefore, the correct answer is (c) -3.90 V.