14.91

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Michelle Dong 1F
Posts: 110
Joined: Fri Sep 29, 2017 7:04 am

14.91

Postby Michelle Dong 1F » Thu Mar 15, 2018 8:35 pm

A voltaic cell functions only when the electrical circuit is complete. In the external circuit the current is carried by the flow of electrons through a metal wire. Explain how the current is carried through the cell itself.

Can someone explain this?

Janine Chan 2K
Posts: 71
Joined: Fri Sep 29, 2017 7:04 am

Re: 14.91

Postby Janine Chan 2K » Thu Mar 15, 2018 9:06 pm

I was confused at this too, but I think it's asking about more about the salt bridge. The external circuit is where the flow of electrons happens, but we need electrolytes to complete the circuit. Since e- go from anode to cathode, electrolytes will then go from cathode to anode.

https://www.chem.wisc.edu/deptfiles/genchem/netorial/rottosen/tutorial/modules/electrochemistry/03voltaic_cells/18_31.htm this website helped me.

...although I am unsure why the flow of the electrolyte is considered to be the current (and not the flow of electrons)?


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