Question

Write a balanced reaction for the cell and calculate the cell potential and delta g for Sn|Sn2+(.0100M)||Al3+(.002M|Al is this cell galvanic or electrolytic

Answer 1

reaction taking place is:
2Al3+ + 3Sn   ----> 2Al + 3Sn2+
number of electron = 6
Eo (Sn2+/Sn) = -0.14 V
Eo (Al3+/Al) = -1.66 V

Eo cell = Eo (right) - Eo (left)
        = -1.66 - (-0.14)
       = -1.52 V
      
use:
E cell = Eo cell - 0.059/n * log {[Sn2+]^3 / [Al3+]^2}
       = -1.52 - 0.059/6 * log {(0.01)^3 / (0.002)^2}
       = -1.52 +5.92*10^-3
       = -1.514
Answer: cell potential = -1.514 V

delta G = -n*F*Ecell
        = -6*96500*(-1.514)
       =8.77*10^5 J
      
Since delta G is positive it is Electrolytic cell