Question

A strip of copper is placed in a 1 M solution of copper nitrate and a strip of silver is placed in a 1 M solution of silver nitrate. The two metal strips are connected to a voltmeter by wires and a salt bridge connects the solutions. The following standard reduction potentials apply:

Answer 1

First step we have to compare the potentials that we have: Ag+ e------> Ag (s)   E=0,80 V, Cu2+ + 2e- ------- Cu(s) E=0,34 V. With these potentials we can see that the Silver's potential is higher than Copper potential so the silver will be reduced and the copper will be oxidate. For these reason, there is a net general movement of silver ions throught the salt bride to the copper half cell.

2Ag⁺ + 2e^- ------> 2Ag (cathode)

Cu ----------->Cu⁺²+2e^- (anode)

We have to calculate the cell's potential:

E°=E_cathode-E_anode=0.80 v-0,34v=0,46V This result indicates that is an esponteun process.