1. What is Cell Potential?

Cell potential (E_cell) is the measure of potential difference between two half cells in an electrochemical cell. It represents the voltage that the cell can deliver and determines whether the redox reaction will occur spontaneously.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the cell potential equation:

Where:

• \( E_{cell} \) — Cell potential (volts)
• \( E_{cathode} \) — Reduction potential of cathode (volts)
• \( E_{anode} \) — Reduction potential of anode (volts)

Explanation: The cell potential is calculated by subtracting the reduction potential of the anode from the reduction potential of the cathode.

3. Importance of Cell Potential Calculation

Details: Calculating cell potential is essential for understanding electrochemical cells, predicting reaction spontaneity, and designing batteries and other electrochemical devices.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the reduction potentials for both cathode and anode in volts. The values can be positive or negative depending on the half-reactions.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What does a positive E_cell value mean?
A: A positive E_cell indicates a spontaneous reaction under standard conditions.

Q2: How do I find reduction potentials?
A: Standard reduction potentials can be found in electrochemical series tables in chemistry references.

Q3: What are typical values for E_cell?
A: Common battery cells have E_cell values ranging from about 1.0V to 3.7V, though values can vary widely.

Q4: Does temperature affect cell potential?
A: Yes, cell potential is temperature-dependent, though this calculator uses standard conditions (25°C).

Q5: Can this be used for concentration cells?
A: For concentration cells, the Nernst equation should be used instead of this simple calculation.