Question

Depict the galvanic cell in which the reaction Zn(s) + 2Ag+ (aq) $\rightarrow$ Zn2+ (aq) + 2Ag(s) takes place, further show:

1. which of the electrode is negatively charged,
2. the carriers of the current in the cell, and
3. individual reaction at each electrode.

Answer 1

The galvanic cell corresponding to the given redox reaction can be represented as:
$Zn[Zn^{2+}_{(aq)}∥Ag^+_{(aq)}]Ag$
(i) $Zn$ electrode is negatively charged because at this electrode, $Zn$ oxidizes to $Zn ^{2+}$ and the leaving electrons accumulate on this electrode.

---

(ii) Ions are the carriers of current in the cell.

---

(iii) The reaction taking place at $Zn$ electrode can be represented as:
$Zn_{(s})\rightarrow Zn^{2+}_{(aq)}+2e^−$
And the reaction taking place at Ag electrode can be represented as:
$Ag^+_{(aq)}+e^-\rightarrow Ag_{(s)}$