Grade 12 ↓
Electrochemistry
Electrochemistry is a branch of chemistry that studies the relationship between electricity and chemical change. It involves understanding the chemical processes that either generate electric current or are driven by electric current. Electrochemistry plays a vital role in a wide variety of modern technological applications, from batteries and fuel cells to electroplating and corrosion prevention.
Basic concepts
Oxidation and reduction
At the core of electrochemistry are the processes of oxidation and reduction, collectively called redox reactions. In simple terms, oxidation is the loss of electrons, while reduction is the gain of electrons. These processes occur simultaneously: when one substance is oxidized, the other is reduced.
Oxidation: Zn → Zn 2+ + 2e - Reduction: Cu 2+ + 2e - → Cu
Electrochemical cells
An electrochemical cell is a device capable of generating electrical energy from chemical reactions or facilitating chemical reactions through the introduction of electrical energy. There are two main types of electrochemical cells: galvanic (or voltaic) cells and electrolytic cells.
In the visual example above, the blue bar represents the anode, where oxidation occurs, and the green bar represents the cathode, where reduction occurs. The two are connected by a salt bridge, represented by the lines and the small box below, which allows the flow of ions between the two half-cells.
Galvanic cells
A galvanic cell, also known as a voltaic cell, is a device in which chemical energy is converted into electrical energy. This type of cell works automatically, producing an electric current due to a redox reaction. An example of this is the famous Daniel cell.
Example: Daniel cell
The Daniel cell has a zinc electrode in a zinc sulfate solution and a copper electrode in a copper (II) sulfate solution. These solutions are connected by a salt bridge that allows the flow of ions but prevents mixing of the different solutions.
Zn(s) + Cu 2+ (aq) → Zn 2+ (aq) + Cu(s)
In this reaction, zinc metal is oxidized to zinc ions, releasing electrons which travel through the external circuit to reach the copper ions, converting them into copper metal.
Electrolytic cell
An electrolytic cell uses electrical energy to drive a non-spontaneous chemical reaction. This process is the opposite of what happens in a galvanic cell. Electrolysis is the common reaction that occurs in electrolytic cells and is used in a variety of applications, such as electroplating and the manufacture of chemical compounds.
Example: Electrolysis of water
In the electrolysis of water, electric current is passed through water to produce hydrogen and oxygen gases.
2H 2 O(l) → 2H 2 (g) + O 2 (g)
In this process, water is decomposed into its basic components, hydrogen and oxygen, using electric current.
Here, the electrostation shows the electrolytic cell setup. The red bar represents the anode, and the blue bar is the cathode, which is connected to the external power source that drives the reaction forward.
Applications of electrochemistry
Batteries
Batteries are one of the most prevalent applications of electrochemistry. They work on the basis of galvanic cells. A common type is the lithium-ion battery which is used in many electronic devices.
Fuel cells
Fuel cells convert chemical energy into electrical energy through electrochemical reactions, often using hydrogen and oxygen. They are used in a variety of applications, from powering vehicles to providing backup energy supplies.
Electricity
Electroplating involves coating a material with a thin layer of metal using the principles of electrolysis. This process is often used to improve the appearance and corrosion resistance of items such as jewellery, cutlery and automotive parts.
Corrosion prevention
Electrochemistry is also used to prevent metal corrosion. Techniques such as cathodic protection apply a small electric current to prevent metal from corroding when exposed to the elements.
Conclusion
Electrochemistry explores the fascinating interplay between chemical reactions and electricity and is crucial to many technological advances and everyday applications. Its fundamental principles are essential to the development of sustainable energy solutions, modern electronics, and many industrial processes. Understanding electrochemical systems is crucial for developing new technologies and improving existing ones.