CHEM 134 Lecture Notes - Lecture 25: Voltmeter, Electrical Network, Galvanic Cell

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Reactions involving the transfer of electrons are known as oxidation reduction reactions . Oxidation is the loss of electrons from some chemical species, whereas reduction is the gain of electrons. The two equations we have written describe what are called half-reactions for the oxidation of copper and the reduction of silver. Neither one can occur on its own, because oxidation and reduction must take place in concert with one another. The species undergoing oxidation is referred to as a reducing agent. The species undergoing reduction is referred to as an oxidizing agent. To define a galvanic cell formally, we should first note its most important characteristic. By separating the two half-reactions, inserting a salt bridge between the solutions, and allowing electrons to flow along a wire connecting the metals, we have generated a sustainable electric current. A galvanic cell is any electrochemical cell in which a spontaneous chemical reaction can be used to generate an electric current.

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