max potential in Galvanic Cell

[Lindsey Chheng 1E]

in the notes for the galvanic cell, it says that max potential is when "very little current flows". What does this mean?

[MaggieHan1L]

I think that this was when Professor Lavelle was talking about the switch being opened

[Charisse Vu 1H]

But why is it that the maximum potential of the cell is when the switch is closed (very little current flowing)? What exactly does "maximum potential" mean?

[Aarja Pavade 1H]

The potential difference is concerned with electron flow between the electrodes, so I believe that the current flow is in reference to the electron flow. Thus, when there is "very little current flow" I think it means that there is little electron flow and the cell is at its maximum potential.

[205405339]

I think when current flows, the voltage decreases as electrons flow thus why max potential is when the switch is open