Cell Diagrams

[Julia Ward 2C]

In a cell diagram, how do you determine which atom/molecule goes first?

EX. Test Question #6C

[Jessica Patzlaff 1A]

The anode is listed first.

[Remi Lathrop 1G]

The anode is always on the left side of the cell diagram, and the cathode is on the right! Usually the parts of the cell diagram are written left to right, reactants going to products, but in some cases the order changes based on states of matter. Solids (such as inert electrodes) always go on the very outside (so first on the left side or last on the right side) and then gasses/liquids, and then aqueous solutions.

[Vivian Nguyen]

The right side would be the anode and then left of the salt bridge would be the cathode. Then within those sections, the reactant is written first then the product.

[Scott Chin_1E]

Remember to use mnemonic devices to help you determine which is the anode and which is the cathode!

LEO - Lose Electrons Oxidation
GER - Gain Electrons Reduction

or

OIL - Oxidation is Lose (electrons)
RIG - Reduction is Gain (electrons)

REDCAT - Reduction is the Cathode

[AtreyiMitra2L]

In general, have the anode go first and the cathode go next. The inert metals should go on the ends. For those in the middle, don't worry too much about the order as Dr. Lavelle has said that it is not that important.

[Annie Lieu-1H]

Anode is always listed first.