All Flashcards
In the electrolytic cell diagram, what is the role of the 'External Power Source'?
The external power source provides the energy needed to drive the non-spontaneous redox reaction.
In the reaction intermediate diagram, what is the role of 'O'?
'O' is an intermediate, produced in one step and consumed in a subsequent step.
What are the key differences between thermodynamically favorable and unfavorable reactions?
Favorable: ΔG° < 0, K > 1, spontaneous | Unfavorable: ΔG° > 0, K < 1, nonspontaneous.
What are the differences between voltaic and electrolytic cells?
Voltaic: Spontaneous redox reaction, produces electricity | Electrolytic: Nonspontaneous redox reaction, requires electricity.
Define 'thermodynamically favorable reaction'.
A reaction that occurs spontaneously, with ΔG° < 0 and K > 1.
Define 'thermodynamically unfavorable reaction'.
A reaction that does not occur spontaneously, with ΔG° > 0 and K < 1.
Define 'electrolytic cell'.
A cell that uses electrical energy to drive a nonspontaneous redox reaction.
Define 'coupled reactions'.
Reactions that involve a nonspontaneous reaction and a spontaneous reaction that share a common intermediate, allowing the nonspontaneous reaction to proceed.
Define 'common intermediate'.
A substance produced in one step of a reaction mechanism and consumed in a later step.