Unit 6 Electrochemistry
Introduction
Electrochemistry is important for the development of batteries, which we use for everything from automobiles to mobile devices. The electrons for powering these objects are extracted from reduction-oxidation, or redox, reactions that involve the exchange of electrons from one species to another. Redox reactions are more than just about batteries. If fact, redox reactions sustain life through photosynthesis and cellular respiration. There are also unwanted redox reactions, such as the rusting of metals. Here, we learn about how redox reactions work and we also apply the concepts learned previously, thermodynamics and equilibrium, to the context of redox reactions.
Unit Learning Objectives
- Identify redox reactions and balance equations of redox reactions.
- Describe the components of a galvanic cell and explain how electricity is produced from the cell.
- Relate the cell potential to the Gibbs free energy change, equilibrium constant, and reaction quotient.
- Predict whether a redox reaction will occur spontaneously.
Unit 6 Sections
6.4 Relating Cell Potential to Free Energy
Each section has a reading portion, self-check question, and a set of practice exercises with solutions. This course has a strong emphasis on solving problems by applying concepts from the reading portions. Thus, working through the self-check questions and practice exercises is important for learning how to apply concepts in chemistry. The supplementary resources and supplementary activities within the sections are not for marks but provide alternative perspectives to enhance understanding of the course material.
Unit 6 Assignment (on Moodle)
The Unit 6 Assignment includes concepts from all the sections of the unit. There may be a mix of written response and multiple-choice questions. The assignment is worth 11% of the course grade.
