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Galvanic vs Electrolytic Cells

Compare galvanic cells (spontaneous, ΔG < 0, generate electricity) with electrolytic cells (non-spontaneous, ΔG > 0, require external voltage). Visualize how galvanic cells convert chemical energy to electrical energy in batteries, while electrolytic cells use electrical energy to drive non-spontaneous reactions in electroplating, electrolysis, and metal purification. Understand electrode polarity differences and the role of external power sources.

ELECTROCHEMICAL CELLS

Galvanic (voltaic) cells use a spontaneous reaction to generate electrical energy. Electrolytic cells use an external power source to drive a non-spontaneous reaction.

CORE FORMULAS

Cell potential

AP EXAM CONNECTION

Unit: Unit 9: Applications of Thermodynamics
Learning Objective: ENE-6.A

COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS

  • Thinking electrons flow through the salt bridge.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • Spontaneous reactions have positive cell potential.

DEEP DIVE: RELATED CONCEPTS

ELECTROLYSIS AND FARADAY'S LAW

Electrolysis is the process of using an external electric current to drive a non-spontaneous chemica...

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