Electrochemistry Flashcard Review

Front

What is the balanced half-reaction for the oxidation of Cu to Cu⁺²?

Back

Cu  --> Cu⁺²  + 2 e-

Front

Is calcium in CaO oxidized or reduced in the reaction 2CaO--> 2Ca + O₂?

Back

Reduced

Front

What distinguishes an electrolytic cell from a voltaic cell?

Back

An electrolytic cell requires an outside energy source for a nonspontaneous chemical reaction to occur.

Front

In the reaction 2Ca + O₂ --> 2CaO, what happens to calcium?

Back

Calcium is oxidized.

Front

Where does reduction occur in an electrochemical cell?

Back

At the cathode.

Front

Define oxidation in terms of electron transfer.

Back

Oxidation is the loss of electrons.

Front

Define reduction in terms of electron transfer.

Back

Reduction is the gain of electrons.

Front

What is the role of the anode in an electrochemical cell?

Back

The anode is where oxidation occurs.

Front

What is the role of the cathode in an electrochemical cell?

Back

The cathode is where reduction occurs.

Front

What is a voltaic cell?

Back

A voltaic cell generates electrical energy from a spontaneous chemical reaction.