Chapter 4: Oxidation-Reduction Reactions

List ALL
Basic Questions
Basic Question 1
4.3.2

Identify oxidation reaction from given list

GT

Which of the following equations is/ are an oxidation reaction?

[-A-] CuCO3 CuO + CO2
[-B-] ZnO + 2 HCl ZnCl2 + H2O
[-C-] 2 Cu + O2 2 CuO
[-D-] Na2CO3 + 2HCl 2 NaCl +H2O + CO2

Basic Question 2
4.3.3

Using an ordered list of oxidation half-reactions, determine which reactions take

place

These elements are listed in decreasing tendency to lose electrons. Which of these reactions below takes
place spontaneously?
Zn(s) Zn+2 + 2e
H2(g) 2H+ + e
Cu(s) Cu+2 + 2e
Ag(s) Ag+ + e
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
f)

Cu(s)+Zn+2(aq) Zn(s) + Cu+2(aq)

Zn(s) + Cu+2 Zn2+ + Cu(s)
Cu(s) + H+ Cu+2 + H2(g)
H2(g) + Cu+2(aq) Cu(s)+ 2H+
2Ag(s) + 2H+ 2Ag+ + H2(g)
Zn(s) + 2Ag(s) Zn+2(aq) + 2Ag+

Basic Question 3
A zinc rod is placed in a 1.0 M zinc nitrate solution. A copper strip is placed in a 1.0 M copper nitrate
solution. The two half-cells are connected by a salt bridge and, externally, by a voltmeter. The voltmeter
reads 1.10V, and it shows that copper is the positive terminal of the cell.
4.3.6
a)

Identify cathode in a given ECC

Which electrode is the cathode?

Cu
4.3.6

d)

Know the electron flow direction in a given ECC

In what direction do electrons pass in the outside circuit (the voltmeter)?

Zn to Cu
4.3.6

c)

In what direction does the current pass in the outside circuit (the voltmeter)?
Cu to Zn
4.3.6

b)

Know the current direction in wires of a given ECC

Write reaction occurring at cathode / anode in a given ECC

Write the equation of the net reaction that takes place at the cathode.
Cu2+(aq) + 2e- Cu(s)
4.3.6

Identify anode in a given ECC

e) Which electrode is the anode?

Zn
4.3.6

Write reaction occurring at cathode / anode in a given ECC

f) Write the equation of the half-reaction that takes place at the anode.
Zn(s) Zn2+(aq) + 2e4.3.6

Know the current flow direction in solution of a given ECC

g) In what direction does the current pass in the solution?

Zn to Cu
4.3.6

Know how to write overall reaction for a given ECC

h) Write the overall equation for the reaction taking place.

Zn (s) + Cu 2+(aq) Zn2+(aq) + Cu (s)
2

4.3.6

Application on E = QV

i) How much energy is released by the cell when 2.0 C pass by any point in the circuit?
E = 2 1.10 = 2.20V

Basic Question 4
4.5.5

Use E0 values to predict certain reactions

Using the table of standard reduction half-cell potentials, answer the following:
a) What would happen if an aluminium spoon is used to stir Fe(NO3)2 solution?
It would dissolve, (Al is more reactive than Fe)
What would happen if an iron spoon is used to stir an AlCl3 solution?
Nothing
b) Can 1 M Fe2(SO4)3 solution be stored in a container made of nickel metal?
No
Explain your answer.
2Fe3+(aq) + Ni(s) 2Fe2+(aq) + Ni 2+(aq)
Ni(s) Ni 2+(aq) + 2e2Fe3+(aq) + 2e- 2Fe2+(aq)

E net = + 1.02 V

Eo = + 0.25 V
Eo = + 0.77 V

A reaction occurs, where Ni container dissolves in the Fe2(SO4)3 solution.

Basic Question 5
4.5.5
a)

Calculate Enet of a given ECC from half-cell potentials

Predict the Enet for the cell made up of the standard half-cells of copper and bromine.
Cu Cu+2 + 2 e - E = - 0.34 V
2 Br - Br2 + 2 e - E = - 1.06 V
Reverse the equation for Bromine
Cu
Cu+2 + 2 e E = - 0.34 V
Br2 + 2 e 2 Br
E = + 1.06 V
_________________________________
Cu + Br2 Cu+2 + 2 Br E net = - 0.34 + 1.06 = + 0.72 V
4.3.4

b)

4.3.4
c)

Identify the positive terminal of a given ECC

Which electrode is the positive terminal of the cell?

Br2
Identify the direction of ion flow in a given ECC

How do the positive and negative ions flow in the solutions?

Cations (+ve ions) towards bromine half cell
Anions (-ve ions) towards Cu half cell.
4.5.5

d)

Using Ecell, predict whether two given species will react

Do you expect a copper metal to react with bromide ions? No
Do you expect copper ions to react with bromine?

No

Basic Question 6
4.5.5

Given Ecell of an ECC in which the SHE is the cathode, calculate the E of
other half reaction

A half-cell consisting of a cadmium rod dipping into a 1.0 M Cd(NO3)2 solution is connected with a
standard hydrogen half-cell. The cell voltage is 0.40 volt and the platinum electrode in the hydrogen halfcell is the cathode. Determine Eo for the reaction
Cd Cd+2 + 2e
Given: Eocell = 0.40V
R.T.F: ECd / Cd 2 = ??

2H+ + 2e- H2
Cd Cd

+2

EH / H = 0.00V
2

+ 2e

ECd / Cd 2 = xV

Eo= EH / H + ECd / Cd 2
2

0.40V = 0.00 + ECd / Cd 2

ECd / Cd 2 = 0.40V

Basic Question 7
4.5.6

Know how to reverse the direction of a given ECC by altering concentrations

A cell consists of a hydrogen electrode immersed in 1 M HNO3 and a silver electrode immersed in 1 M
AgNO3. The net equation for the reaction is: H2(g) + 2Ag+ 2Ag(s) + 2H+
To reverse the direction of the current produced by the cell,
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)

increase the size of the silver electrode.

increase the size of the hydrogen electrode.
decrease the concentration of the hydrogen ions.
decrease the concentration of the silver ions.
increase the concentration of the silver ions.

Basic Question 8
4.5.5

Calculate Enet of a given ECC from half-cell potentials

a) Predict the Enet for the cell made up of the standard half-cells of zinc and silver.
Zn Zn +2 + 2 e
Ag Ag + + e -

E = + 0.76 V
E = - 0.80 V

Reverse equation of Ag and multiply by 2

Zn Zn +2 + 2 e
E = + 0.76 V
+
2 Ag + 2 e 2 Ag
E = + 0.80 V
_________________________________________
Zn + 2 Ag + Zn +2 + 2 Ag
E net = +0.76 + 0.80 = + 1.56 V

4.3.6

Know the current direction in wires of a given ECC

b) How does the current flow in the outside circuit?

Ag to Zn
4.3.6

Identify cathode in a given ECC

c) Which electrode is the cathode?

Ag
4.3.6

Identify the electrode that gains weight in a given ECC

d) Which electrode gains weight?

Ag
4.5.6

Calculate the mass lost by one electrode given the # moles gained by the other
in a given ECC

e) When this electrode gains 0.0010 mole, how many grams will the other electrode lose in weight?
Given: nAg that deposits = 0.0010
R.T.F: loss in mCu =??
Zn + 2 Ag + Zn +2 + 2 Ag
+ 1.56 V
One mole of Zinc dissolves for every two moles of silver deposited.
(0.0010)(65.4)
m=
= 0.0327g
2

Basic Question 9
4.6.2

Calculate the oxidation numbers of elements in a compounds/ions

1. Find the oxidation number of each element in

a) H3PO4

H = +1, P = + 5, O = -2
The rules give ON of H and O
H3 P O4
+1 x -2
Total ON = 0 = 3(+1) + x + 4(-2)

b) HSO4

H = +1, S = +6, O = -2
The rules give ON of H and O
H S O4 +1 x -2
Total ON = -1 = (+1) + x + 4(-2)

c) C2H3O2

x = +5

x = +6

C = 0, H = +1, O = -2
The rules give ON of H and O
C2 H3 O2x +1 - 2
Total ON = -1 = 2(x) + 3(+1) + 2(-2)

x=0

d) Pt(H2O)42+ Pt = +2, H = +1, O = -2

The rules give ON of H and O
Pt (H2 O)4+2
x +1 -2
Total ON = +2 = x + 4[2(+1) + (-2)]

x = +2

OR
H2 O = 0

+2 = x

e) Fe2(CO3)3 Fe = +3, C = +4, O = -2

CO32- = -2, Fe+x
2x + 3(-2) = 0

x = +3

4.6.2

Calculate the change in oxidation number given two species

2. The oxidation number of nitrogen increases as:

a) NO3- becomes NO
b) N2O4 becomes NI3
c) CN- becomes HCN
d) NH3 becomes NH4+
e) NO2 becomes N2O5

(from +5 to +2)
(from +4 to +3)
(from -5 to -5)
(from +3 to -3)
(from +4 to +5)

Basic Question 10
4.6.3

Know how to balance a redox reaction in acidic or basic medium

a) In acidic medium
When copper metal is placed in a dilute solution of nitric acid bubbles of NO gas are produced. The
solution turns blue, indicating that Cu2+ is forming. Write a balanced equation, showing all steps.
Steps:
1. Write the equation first (Unbalanced)
Cu (s) + H+ (aq) + NO3- (aq) Cu2+ (aq) + NO (g)
2. Write the 2 half reactions
Cu (s) Cu2+(aq)

NO3-(aq) NO (g)

3. Balance any element other than oxygen and hydrogen

(Elements Cu & N are balanced on both sides of the reaction)
4. Balance oxygen by adding water
Cu (s) Cu2+(aq)

NO3-(aq) NO (g) + 2 H2O (l)

5. Balance hydrogen by adding hydrogen ion (H+)

Cu (s) Cu2+(aq)

4 H+(aq) + NO3-(aq) NO (g) + 2 H2O (l)

6. Balance charge by adding suitable number of electrons

Cu (s) Cu2+(aq) + 2 e-

3 e- + 4 H+(aq) + NO3-(aq) NO (g) + 2 H2O (l)

7. Number of electrons lost and gained must be equal

3 x (Cu (s) Cu2+(aq) + 2 e-)

2 x (3 e- + 4 H+(aq) + NO3-(aq) NO (g) + 2 H2O (l))

8

3Cu (s) 3Cu2+(aq) + 6 e-

6 e- + 8 H+(aq) + 2 NO3-(aq) 2 NO (g) + 4 H2O (l)

8. Add up the two equations

3Cu (s)

6 e- + 8 H+(aq) + 2 NO3-(aq)

3Cu2+(aq) + 6 e2 NO (g) + 4 H2O (l)

3Cu (s) + 2 NO3-(aq) + 8 H+(aq) 3Cu2+(aq) + 2 NO (g) + 4 H2O (l)

b) In basic medium
Complete and balance the following equation which takes place in basic aqueous solution
P4 (s) + H2O (l) H2PO3-(aq) + P2H4 (g)

Steps:
1. Write the 2 half reactions
P4 (s) H2PO3-(aq)

P4 (s) P2H4 (g)

2. Balance any element other than oxygen and hydrogen

P4 (s) 4 H2PO3-(aq)

P4 (s) 2 P2H4 (g)

3. Balance oxygen by adding water

12 H2O (l) + P4 (s) 4 H2PO3-(aq)

P4 (s) 2 P2H4 (g)

4. Balance hydrogen by adding hydrogen ion (H+)

12 H2O (l) + P4 (s) 4 H2PO3-(aq) + 16 H+ (aq)
8 H+ (aq) + P4 (s) 2 P2H4 (g)

5. Balance charge by adding suitable number of electrons

12 H2O (l) + P4 (s) 4 H2PO3-(aq) + 16 H+ (aq) +
8 e- +

12 e-

8 H+ (aq) + P4 (s) 2 P2H4 (g)

6. Number of electrons lost and gained must be equal

12 H2O (l) + P4 (s) 4 H2PO3-(aq) + 16 H+ (aq) +
8 e- +

8 H+ (aq) + P4 (s) 2 P2H4 (g)

x2

x3

24 H2O (l) + 2 P4 (s) 8 H2PO3-(aq) + 32 H+ (aq) +

24 e- +

12 e-

24 e-

24 H+ (aq) + 3 P4 (s) 6 P2H4 (g)

7. Add up the two equations

24 H2O (l) + 2 P4 (s)

24 e- +

24 H+ (aq) + 3 P4 (s)

24 H2O (l) + 5 P4 (s)

8
8 H2PO3 (aq) + 32 H+ (aq) +
-

24 e-

6 P2H4 (g)

8 H2PO3-(aq) + 6 P2H4 (g) + 8 H+ (aq)

8. Add to the right and left sides number of hydroxide ions OH- equal to the H+ , and eliminate water
molecules

8 OH-(aq) + 24 H2O (l) + 5 P4 (s) 8 H2PO3-(aq) + 6 P2H4 (g) + 8 H+ (aq) + 8 OH-(aq)

16 H2O

8 H2O (l)

And the final equation is:

8 OH-(aq) + 16 H2O (l) + 5 P4 (s) 8 H2PO3-(aq) + 6 P2H4 (g)
10

Basic Question 11
4.8.1

Know products at anode/cathode when different solutions are electrolysed

TG

The following are results for the experiments on electrolysis using inert electrodes.
Complete the table below, the first one has been done for you.
Electrolyte

Change at the negative

electrode

Change at the positive

electrode

Change to electrolyte

Molten lead(II) chloride

Lead formed

Chlorine formed

Used up

Molten potassium
iodide

Potassium formed

Iodine formed

Used up

Dilute aqueous sodium

chloride

Hydrogen

Oxygen

Solution becomes more

concentrated

Aqueous copper (II)

sulphate

Copper

Oxygen

Sulphuric acid forms

Aqueous potassium
bromide

Hydrogen formed

Bromine formed

Potassium hydroxide
formed

Basic Question 12
4.8.1

Know the half reactions when a molten salt is electrolyzed

Write the two half-reactions occurring when molten ZnCl2 is electrolyzed.

Cathode
Anode

Zn2+(l) + 2e- Zn(s)

2Cl-(l) Cl2(g) + 2e-

11

TG

Basic Question 13
Concentrated hydrochloric acid is electrolysed using the apparatus below.

4.8.1

Label the electrodes of a given electrolytic cell

(a)

TG

Label on the diagram the position of the electrodes.

Positive is anode
Negative is cathode

4.8.1

Predict the observations seen at the electrodes of a given electrolytic cell

(b)

What are the two observations when the circuit is switched on?
Any two from:
1)
2)
3)
4)

Bubbles/fizzing/ effervescence
Green gas evolves
Level of liquid falls
Bulb lights up

12

TG

4.8.1

Predict the products produced at the electrodes of a given electrolytic cell

a) (i)

TG

The product at the positive electrode is called : Chlorine

Topics: Know test for chlorine gas

halogens
(ii)

TG

The test and the result of this product are:

Test: Litmus paper/indicator
Result: Bleaches

Basic Question 14
4.8.1

Predict the solution being electrolyzed if H2(g) and O2(g) are produced at the
electrodes
Which of the following aqueous solutions produces H2(g) and O2(g) during electrolysis?
Product at anode

Product at cathode

a) KI(aq)

I2 (s)

H2 (g)

b) CuI2(aq)

I2 (s)

Cu (s)

c) molten NaCl

Cl2 (g)

Na (l)

d) CuSO4(aq)

O2 (g)

Cu (s)

e) K2SO4(aq)

O2 (g)

H2 (g)

TG

Basic Question 15
4.8.1

Predict the half reactions occurring at each electrode during a given electrolytic
process

An iron spoon is to be plated with copper metal. Write the two half-reactions occurring at each electrode.
Cathode
Anode

Cu2+(aq) + 2e- Cu(s)

Cu(s) Cu2+( aq) + 2e-

13

Basic Question 16
4.8

Know apparatus used in electroplating

Which of the following apparatus could be used to electroplate an iron nail with nickel?

Key
[-A-]
Nickel rod
iron nail

Aqueous nickel (II) sulphate

[-B-]

[-C-]

Aqueous iron (II) sulphate

[-D-]

aqueous nickel (II) sulphate

[-E-]

Aqueous iron (II) sulphate

Aqueous nickel (II) carbonate

14

Basic Question 17
Applications on Faradays Law

4.8

1) A current of one ampere is passed through a voltammeter containing concentrated aqueous sodium
chloride with inert electrodes for 32 minutes. Find the volume of each gas liberated at room
conditions.
Given

R.T.F.

I = 1 amp
t = 32 mins

V of each gas liberated = ??

According to Faradays Law:

=

Where:
I = current in amperes
t = time in seconds
F = Faradays constant (96500 C)
Depending on conditions: If RTP use 24 dm3 if STP use 22.4 dm3
n = number of moles of electrons per mole of gas

When NaCl (aq) is electrolyzed the following occurs at each electrode

At anode:

At cathode

Chlorine gas is produced

Hydrogen gas is produced

2 Cl- (aq) Cl2 (g) + 2 e-

2 H+ (aq) + 2 e- H2 (g)

For every one mole of Cl2 (g) produced 2 moles

of electrons are released.

For every one mole of H2 (g) produced 2 moles

of electrons are needed.

( )

= .

15

( )

= .

2) Calculate the mass of lead deposited and the volume of iodine gas released at STP when 2 faradays (2
F) of electricity flow through molten lead (II) iodide, PbI2.
Given

R.T.F.

2 Faradays
molten lead (II) iodide

m of Pb = ??
V of I2 = ??

Hint: 96500 C is called one faraday of electricity and represents one mole of electrons.
At anode:

At cathode

Iodine gas is produced

Molten lead gas is deposited

2 I- (aq) I2 (g) + 2 e-

Pb 2+ (l) + 2 e- Pb (s)

For every one mole of I2 (g) produced 2 moles of

electrons are released.

For every one mole of Pb (s) deposited 2 moles

of electrons are needed.
1 Pb
1 mole
???

2 e2 mole of electrons
2 moles of electrons

1 I2
1 mole
???

2 e2 moles of electrons
2 moles of electrons

1 mole of Pb is deposited when 2 F flow

1 mole of iodine is released when 2 F flow
m of Pb = n x M = 1 x 207 = 207 g
3

V of I2 = n x 22.4 = 1 x 22.4 = 22.4 dm

3) A current of 0.020 A passes for 5.00 hours through a solution of gold (III) nitrate. Calculate the mass
of metal deposited.
Given

R.T.F.

t = 5.00 hours
I = 0.020 A

m of metal = ????

Equation occurring at cathode:

Au3+(aq) + 3 e- Au (s)
For every 1 mole of gold deposited, 3 moles of electrons are needed.
=

. (. )

= .

16

4) A metal has a relative atomic mass of 48.0 was deposited by electrolysis. If 0.239 g of the metal was
deposited when 0.100 A flowed for 4.00 hours, what is the charge on the ion of this metal?
Given

R.T.F.

t = 4.00 hours
I= 0.100 A
relative atomic mass of metal = 48.0
mass of metal deposited = 0.239 g

charge on ion of metal = ????

. (.)

= .

n = number of moles of electrons = 3

The charge on the metal ion is + 3

5) A current of 2.00 A was passed through a solution of nitric acid for 6.00 hours. Calculate the volume
of hydrogen and oxygen gases produced measured at STP conditions.
Given

R.T.F.

t = 6.00 hours
I= 2.00A

V of H2 = ??
V of O2 = ??

At anode:

At cathode

Oxygen gas is produced

Hydrogen gas is produced

4 OH- (aq) 2 H2O (l) + O2 (g) + 4 e-

2 H+ (aq) + 2 e- H2 (g)

For every one mole of O2 (g) produced 4 moles

of electrons are released.

For every one mole of H2 (g) produced 2 moles

of electrons are needed.

. (. )
.

= .

. (. )
.

= .

17

Sample Questions
In all multiple choices, more than one answer could be correct.
4.1 Experiment: An introduction to oxidation-reduction
4.1.1 Reaction between zinc, copper and their ions
Sample Question 1
What happens when a zinc rod is placed in copper nitrate solution
When a zinc rod is placed in copper nitrate solution,
a) copper metal deposits on the zinc rod.
b) zinc metal deposits on the copper rod.
c) the blue color of the solution fades away.
d) the blue color of the solution intensifies (becomes stronger).
e) zinc dissolves becoming zinc ions.
f) no reaction takes place as far as we can see.
Sample Question 2
What happens when a copper rod is placed in zinc nitrate solution
When a copper rod is placed in zinc nitrate solution,
a) copper metal deposits on the zinc rod.
b) zinc metal deposits on the copper rod.
c) the blue color of the solution fades away.
d) the blue color of the solution intensifies (becomes stronger).
e) zinc dissolves becoming zinc ions.
f) no reaction takes place as far as we can see.
4.1.2 Reaction between halogens (Cl2, Br2, I2) and halide ions
Sample Question 3
Color of halogens in carbon tetrachloride
The color of chlorine, bromine and iodine dissolved in CCl4 are respectively
a) colorless, reddish brown, violet.
b) colorless, violet, reddish brown.
c) violet, colorless, reddish brown.
d) violet, reddish brown, colorless.
e) reddish brown, colorless, violet.
f) reddish brown, violet, colorless.

18

Reactions of halogens with halide ions

Sample Question 4
What happens when chlorine water is added to NaBr
When chlorine water is added to NaBr solution
a) the element bromine is produced.
b) chlorine reacts to give chloride ions.
c) bromine changes to bromide ions.
d) no reaction takes place.
e) chlorine bubbles out as a gas.
f) bromine bubbles out as a gas.
g) the solution turns from colorless to brown.
Sample Question 5
What happens when bromine water is added to NaCl
When bromine water is added to NaCl solution
a) the element chlorine is produced.
b) chlorine reacts to give chloride ions.
c) bromine changes to bromide ions.
d) no reaction takes place.
e) chlorine bubbles out as a gas.
f) bromine bubbles out as a gas.
g) the solution turns from colorless to brown.
Sample Question 6
What happens when bromine water is added to NaI
When bromine water is added to NaI solution
a) the element iodine is produced.
b) bromine reacts to give bromide ions.
c) if CCl4 is added, its colour becomes purple.
d) no reaction takes place.
e) iodine bubbles out as a gas.
f) bromine bubbles out as a gas.
g) the solution turns from brown to colorless.

19

Competition for electrons between the halogens

Sample Question 7
Competition for electrons between the halogens
Identify the reactions that occur spontaneously:
a) Cl2(aq) + 2I(aq) 2Cl(aq) + I2(aq)
b) Cl2(aq) + 2Br(aq) 2Cl(aq) + Br2(aq)
c) Br2(aq) + 2I(aq) 2Br(aq) + I2(aq)
d) Br2(aq) + 2Cl(aq) 2Br(aq) + Cl2(aq)
e) I2(aq) + 2Cl(aq) 2I(aq) + Cl2(aq)
f) I2(aq) + 2Br(aq) 2I(aq) + Br2(aq)
4.2 Half-reactions, oxidation and reduction
4.2.1 Definitions
Oxidation and reduction in terms of addition and removal of oxygen
Oxidation and reduction in terms of electron transfer
Sample Question 8
What is a half-reaction in chemistry
Chemists use the term half-reaction. Which of the following is an example?
a) I2(aq) + 2Br(aq)
b) 2I(aq) + Br2(aq)
c) 2I(aq) + Br2(aq)
d) 2Br(aq) 2e + Br2(aq)
e) 2e + Cl2(aq) 2Cl(aq)
Sample Question 9
What is an oxidation reaction
Chemists use the term oxidation reaction. A good example is
a) any reaction in which the charge on a specific element increases.
b) any reaction in which the charge on a specific element decreases.
c) 2Br(aq) 2e + Br2(aq)
d) 2e + Cl2(aq) 2Cl(aq)
e) H+(aq) + OH(aq) H2O(l)
f) a reaction in which electrons are lost
g) are reaction in which addition of oxygen occurs.

20

Sample Question 10
What is a reduction reaction?
Chemists use the term reduction reaction. A good example is
a) any reaction in which the charge on a specific element increases.
b) any reaction in which the charge on a specific element decreases.
c) 2Br(aq) 2e + Br2(aq)
d) 2e + Cl2(aq) 2Cl(aq)
e) H+(aq) + OH(aq) H2O(l)
f) a reaction in which electrons are gained
g) are reaction in which removal of oxygen occurs.
Sample Question 11
When is an element oxidized or reduced?
When chemists say an element has been oxidized,
a) they mean that the charge on it has increased.
b) they mean that the charge on it has decreased.
c) a good example would be 2Br(aq) 2e + Br2(aq)
d) a good example would be 2e + Cl2(aq) 2Cl(aq)
e) a good example would be H+(aq) + OH(aq) H2O(l)
4.2.2 Competition between Zn and Cu to lose electrons
4.3 Electrochemical Cells
4.3.1

The chemistry of an electrochemical cell

Sample Question 12
Recognize parts of an electrochemical cell
Which of the following is essential for a silver-copper electrochemical cell to operate?
a) A silver rod in a silver nitrate solution (in beaker 1).
b) A copper rod in a copper nitrate solution (in beaker 2).
c) Metal wires to connect the two rods.
d) An ammeter connected by wires to the two rods.
e) A salt bridge full of, say, sodium nitrate, inverted such that each arm is in one of the two
beakers.
f) A battery or a cell.
g) A resistor R connected in series.

21

Sample Question 13
Determine quantity of silver or copper used up/produced in a silver-copper cell
The net reaction of a cell formed of silver and copper half cells is:
Cu(s) + 2Ag+(aq) 2Ag(s) + Cu+2(aq)
When 0.0100 mole of copper dissolves,
a) 0.0100 mole of silver dissolves.
b) 0.0200 mole of silver dissolves.
c) 0.0100 mole of silver deposits.
d) 0.0200 mole of silver deposits.
e) 0.0100 g of silver deposits.
f) 0.0200 g of silver deposits.
Note:
Cu
:
2 Ag+
1 mole
2 moles
0.0100 moles ???

0.0200 moles

Sample Question 14
Recognize an oxidation-reduction reaction and know its properties
Which is true about an oxidation-reduction reaction?
a) A good example is Cu(s) + 2Ag+(aq) 2Ag(s) + Cu+2(aq)
b) A good example is Cu(aq) Cu+2(aq) + 2e
c) A good example is 2Ag+(aq) + 2e 2Ag(s)
d) Electrons lost are always equal to electrons gained.
e) The half-reactions, when combined, express the overall, or net, reaction.
4.3.2 Oxidation-reduction reactions in a beaker
Copper oxidized by Ag+(aq) in a beaker
Reaction of metals with aqueous acids
Zinc oxidized by Cu2+(aq) in a beaker
4.3.3 Listing half-reactions as oxidation half-reactions

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4.3.4 Operation of an electrochemical cell

Sample Question 15
The electrode where oxidation occurs is called the anode
The anode is the
a) electrode where reduction occurs.
b) electrode where oxidation occurs.
c) electrode to which positive ions are attracted.
d) electrode to which negative ions are attracted.
e) positive terminal of a cell.
f) negative terminal of a cell
Sample Question 16
The electrode where reduction occurs is called the cathode
The cathode is
a) electrode where reduction occurs.
b) electrode where oxidation occurs.
c) electrode to which positive ions are attracted.
d) electrode to which negative ions are attracted.
e) positive terminal of a cell.
Sample Question 17
In the outside circuit of a cell, electrons flow from the negative terminal (the anode) to the positive
terminal (the cathode)
In the outside circuit of an electrochemical cell, the electrons flow from the
a) negative terminal to the positive terminal.
b) positive terminal to the negative terminal.
c) cathode to the anode.
d) anode to the cathode.
e) electrode to which positive ions are attracted.
f) electrode to which negative ions are attracted.
Sample Question 18
Negative ions are called anions, positive cations
Negative and positive ions are respectively called
a) anions and cations.
b) cations and anions.
c) positrons and negatrons.
d) electrons and positrons.
e) atoms of opposite charge.
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4.3.5 What causes the cell to operate?

4.3.6 Measuring the energy released by a cell
4.4 Film: Electrochemical Cells
4.4.1 The copper-silver cell Constituents
Sample Question 19
Know what reactions occur in a Cu-Ag cell
The reactions which occur in a Cu-Ag cell are,
a) at the cathode Cu(s) Cu2+ + 2e and at the anode Ag (s) Ag+ + e
b) at the anode Cu(s) Cu2+ + 2e and at the cathode Ag (s) Ag+ + e
c) at the cathode Cu(s) Cu2+ + 2e and at the anode Ag (s) Ag+ + e
d) at the anode Cu(s) Cu2+ + 2e and at the cathode Ag (s) Ag+ + e
e) at the Cu rod Cu(s) Cu2+ + 2e and at the Ag rod Ag (s) Ag+ + e
Sample Question 20
Recognize the anode and cathode in a silver-copper cell
A cell consists of a silver rod placed in a silver nitrate solution and a copper rod placed in a copper nitrate
solution. The anode and cathode of the cell are respectively
a) the electrode where reduction occurs and the electrode where oxidation occurs.
b) the electrode where oxidation occurs and the electrode where reduction occurs.
c) the silver electrode and the copper electrode.
d) the copper electrode and the silver electrode.
e) the positive terminal of the cell and the negative terminal of the cell.
f) the negative terminal of the cell and the positive terminal of the cell.
Movement of ions
Sample Question 21
Cations in the cell move towards the cathode, anions opposite
In the solutions in a cell, which is true about how ions move?
a) Cations move towards the cathode.
b) Anions move towards the electrode where oxidation takes place.
c) Cations move towards the anode.
d) Anions move towards the cathode in the wire.
e) Anions and cations move in opposite directions.

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Explanation
Sample Question 22
A long time after completing a circuit net reaction stops: new equilibrium
A cell consists of a silver rod placed in a silver nitrate solution and a copper rod placed in a copper nitrate
solution. 12 hours after completing the circuit,
a) the voltage of the cell remains unchanged.
b) the voltage of the cell drops to zero.
c) at the copper electrode, there is a net depositing of copper atoms; at the silver electrode, there is a net
dissolving of silver atoms.
d) a new equilibrium exists at each rod, but the concentration of silver ions is very small and the
concentration of copper ions is large.
e) a new equilibrium exists at each rod, but the concentration of copper ions is very small and the
concentration of silver ions is large.
4.4.2 The hydrogen-silver cell
The hydrogen electrode
Sample Question 23
Know what a hydrogen electrode is
A hydrogen electrode is
a) a gold rod immersed in a hydrogen solution.
b) a rod of mossy platinum immersed in a 1 M acid solution.
c) a rod of mossy platinum with gaseous hydrogen being bubbled onto it, immersed in a 1M acid
solution.
d) a rod of hydrogen immersed in a hydrogen ion solution.
e) a rod of hydrogen immersed in a oxygen ion solution.
Operating the cell
Sample Question 24
Reactions in a hydrogen-silver cell
A hydrogen half cell is connected to a silver half cell and the circuit is completed. The reactions that take
place are
a) at the cathode Ag(s) Ag+ + e and at the anode 2H+ + 2e H2(g)
b) at the anode H2(g) 2H+ + 2e and at the cathode Ag+ + e Ag(s)
c) at the cathode H2(g) 2H+ + 2e and at the anode Ag+ + e Ag(s)
d) at the anode H2(g) + 2e 2H+ and at the cathode Ag+ + e Ag(s)
e) at the Ag rod Ag+ + e Ag(s) and at the H rod H2(g) 2H+ + 2e
4.5 Electromotive force of a cell
Sample Question 25

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Know what the electromotive force of a cell is

The electromotive force of a cell is
a) the potential energy stored in the cell.
b) the maximum current a cell can deliver.
c) the volts that a new cell has.
d) the energy released throughout the circuit when a coulomb of electrons passes through any
one point in the main circuit.
e) the minimum energy per coulomb a cell has.
4.5.1 The standard electromotive force
Sample Question 26
Know what the standard electromotive force of a cell is
The standard electromotive force of a cell is
a) the voltage of the cell when each electrode is placed in 1M solution of its ions, at 25C and 1
atmosphere.
b) the voltage of the cell when each electrode is placed in 1M solution of its ions at STP.
c) the volts that a new (still unused) cell has.
d) the energy released throughout the circuit when a coulomb of electrons passes through any one point
in the main circuit.
e) the minimum energy per coulomb a cell has.
f) the total current generated by a cell divided by the mass of the electrodes.
4.5.2 Representation of a cell
Sample Question 27
Meaning of H2(g) / H+ // Ag+ / Ag(s), Enet = +0.80V
The representation H2(g) / H+ // Ag+ / Ag(s) , Enet = +0.80V stands for
a) a process of electrolysis where hydrogen and silver are being produced using a voltage of 0.80V.
b) the same thing as H2(g) / H+ // Ag+ / Ag(s), Enet = 0.80V
c) the same thing as Ag(s) / Ag+ // H+ / H2(g), Enet = 0.80V
d) the same thing as Ag(s) / Ag+ // H+ / H2(g), Enet = +0.80V
e) a cell in which both hydrogen is oxidized, silver is reduced, and 0.8J/C liberated.
f) a cell in which both hydrogen is reduced, silver is oxidized, and 0.8J/C liberated.
g) a cell in which the net reaction as shown runs spontaneously, producing 0.8J/C.

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4.5.3 Enet are additive: law of conservation of energy

Sample Question 28
Application: additivity of Enet
Zn(s) / Zn2+ // H+ / H2(g)
H2(g) / H+ // Cu2+ / Cu(s)
Find Enet for Zn(s) / Zn2+ // Cu2+ / Cu(s)
Given that

a)
b)
c)
d)

Enet = +0.76V
Enet = +0.34V

0.42V
+0.42V
1.10V
+1.10V

4.5.4 Standard half-cell potential: E

Sample Question 29
Definition of the standard half-cell potential E of a half-cell
Which is the best definition of the standard half-cell potential E of a given half-cell? It is
a) the electromotive force E of the cell formed between this half cell and a standard hydrogen
half cell.
b) half the electromotive force E of the cell formed between this half cell and a standard hydrogen
half cell.
c) the electromotive force E of this half-cell formed when measured alone.
d) the electromotive force E of the full cell divided by 2.
e) the electromotive force E of this cell when the concentration of the solution is halved.
4.5.5 Using half-cell potentials to calculate Enet of cells
4.5.6 Predictions and the effect of concentration
Sample Question 30
Predicting the effect of concentration on the value of Enet of a cell
Given that: 2Ag+ + Co(s) 2Ag(s) + Co2+
Enet = 1.080 V
+
What is the effect on the Enet value if the [Ag ] was increased?
a) Enet value remains the same.
b) Enet value increases.
c) Enet value decreases.
d) Enet value increases then becomes zero.
e) Enet value drops to zero.

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4.5.7 Reliability of predictions

Sample Question 31
Enet helps us predict whether a reaction can be spontaneous or not, but nothing about rate
Enet for the reaction below is given: Fe(s) + 2H+ Fe+2 + H2(g) Enet = +0.44 volt
Which of the following is correct?
a) If iron metal reacts with a 1 M solution of H+ ions, energy will be liberated.
b) Energy has to be supplied for iron metal to react with H+ ions.
c) Since E is positive, the reaction will be fast.
d) Only experiment can tell us whether the reaction will be slow or fast.
e) The higher the value of E net the faster the reaction will occur.
4.5.8 E and the factors that determine equilibrium
4.6 Oxidation numbersan electron bookkeeping device
4.6.1 The need to find an electron counting method
Sample Question 32
Identify a reducing or an oxidizing agent in a given redox reaction
In the reaction: Fe+3 + Cu+ Fe+2 + Cu+2
a) Fe+3 is a reducing agent and Cu+ is an oxidizing agent.
b) Fe+3 is an oxidizing agent and Cu+ is a reducing agent.
c) Fe+2 is an oxidizing agent and Cu+2 is a reducing agent.
d) Fe+3 is oxidized and Cu+ is reduced.
e) An oxidizing agent is itself a reducing agent.
A spontaneous reaction occurs when a piece of iron is placed in 1.0M CuSO4 (aq). The reducing agent is:
a) Fe.
b) Cu+2.
c) H2O.
d) SO4-2.
e) CuSO4.

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Sample Question 33
Know what oxidation numbers are
The oxidation number is
a) the number of atoms that are oxidized.
b) the total number of atoms that are oxidized and reduced.
c) a fictitious charge on an atom when shared electrons are counted according to certain rules.
d) the real charge on an oxidized atom or ion or molecule.
e) a number designed to tell us how much oxidation occurred.
4.6.2 Rules for assigning oxidation numbers
4.6.3 Oxidation numbers in balancing oxidation-reduction reactions
Sample Question 34
Redefining oxidation and reduction in terms of oxidation numbers
We redefine oxidation and reduction respectively as
a) reaction with oxygen and reaction with water.
b) an increase and a decrease in actual charge.
c) an increase and a decrease in oxidation numbers.
d) a decrease and an increase in oxidation numbers.
e) the voltage of a half-cell, first alone and then against a hydrogen half-cell.
4.6.4 Oxidation-reduction reactions involving acids
Sample Question 35
Acid-base reactions are not redox reactions
Which of the following reactions are redox reactions, i.e. have atoms that change oxidation numbers?
Check by finding the oxidation number of each element in the reactants and products.
a) H+ + OH H2O
b) 2H+ + CaO Ca2+ + H2O
c) Zn(s) + 2H+ H2(g) + Zn2+
d) NH3(g) + HCl(g) NH4Cl(s)

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Hydrogen ions of acids reacting with metals

Sample Question 36
Recognize reactions in which H+ of an acid solution can oxidize a metal
Which of the following reactions, in which H+ oxidizes a metal, are spontaneous in an acidic medium?
a) Zn(s) + 2H+ H2(g) + Zn2+
b) Mg(s) + 2H+ H2(g) + Mg2+
c) Cu(s) + 2H+ H2(g) + Cu2+
d) 2 Ag (s) + 2 H+ H2 (g) + 2 Ag+
Anions of acids acting as oxidizing agents
Sample Question 37
Recognize acids which can oxidize zinc
Which of the following acids can oxidize zinc?
a) HCl
b) HNO3
c) H2SO4
Sample Question 38
Recognize acids which can oxidize copper
Which of the following acids can oxidize copper metal?
a) HCl
b) HNO3
c) H2SO4
Sample Question 39
Recognize gas liberated when HCl, HNO3 and H2SO4 react with metals
In which case is a gas different from hydrogen gas liberated?
a) HCl + Fe
b) HNO3 + Cu
c) H2SO4 + Cu

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4.7 Electrolysis
Sample Question 40
What does electrolysis mean?
Electrolysis means
a) burning by an electric current.
b) fusing by an electric current.
c) bombarding by electrons.
d) separation by electricity.
e) breaking down into elements.
4.7.1 Electrolysis of a potassium iodide solution
4.7.2 Electrolysis of a molten salt
4.8 Applications of electrochemical cells and electrolysis
4.8.1 Common uses of electrolysis
Electrolyzing water
Collection of Gases
Electrolysis to produce metals from metal oxides
Electrolysis of aqueous solutions of electrolytes
Electrolysis for electroplating
Sample Question 41
Know what electroplating is
Electroplating is
a) covering a plate with electricity.
b) making plates using electricity.
c) using electricity to cover an object with a thin layer of metal.
d) using electricity to plant teeth in patients who lost their teeth.
e) etching a plate by bombarding it with electrons.

Purification of copper and extraction of aluminum

Purification of copper
Extraction of aluminum
Quantitative Aspects of electrolysis
Faradays Law of electrolysis

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4.8.2 Commonly used electrochemical cells

The dry cell
Sample Question 42
Know what a dry cell is, its voltage and its usage
A dry cell is (choose all correct answers)
a) is a cell which is dried up, and when water is added to it, it will work again.
b) is a cell in which zinc turns to ions, and which delivers 1.5 volts.
c) is commonly used in flashlights and other electric devices.
d) has an outer casing which is the negative terminal and made of zinc, and a central rod which
acts as the positive terminal.
e) is the main source of power making up batteries of motor cars.
f) is designed to be recharged many times.
The lead storage battery cell
The fuel cell
Sample Question 43
Advantage of a fuel cell for reducing pollution in cities
If fuel cells become widely used in motor cars, the advantage will be that
a) they cut down on the cost of fuel.
b) they will reduce the amount of CO2 released into the atmosphere even if the source of the hydrogen
is fossil fuels.
c) they will reduce pollution in areas with traffic congestion, like in big cities, as the product of
combustion is pure steam.
d) they will give us more energy.
e) oxygen and hydrogen gas cylinders under high pressure in the car constitute a hazard of explosion.
The Li-ion cell
Hybrid cars
Sample Question 44
Hybrid cars re-store energy into chargeable batteries energy that is normally wasted
Hybrid cars run more efficiently because
a) they run on batteries.
b) they have two or more engines.
c) when the driver applies the brakes, some of the kinetic energy is stored into the battery.
d) when the car goes downhill, some of the lost potential energy is stored into the battery.
e) when the car idles, the conventional engine switches off.

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