Back to Directory
NEET CHEMISTRYMedium

Consider the following relations for emf of an electrochemical cell: (a) emf of a cell = (Oxidation potential of the anode) – (Reduction potential of the cathode) (b) emf of a cell = (Oxidation potential of the anode) + (Reduction potential of the cathode) (c) emf of a cell = (Reduction potential of the anode) + (Reduction potential of the cathode) (d) emf of a cell = (Oxidation potential of the anode) – (Oxidation potential of the cathode)

Which of the following combinations correctly represents the relation for the emf of the cell?

A

(a) and (b)

B

(c) and (d)

C

(b) and (d)

D

(c) and (a)

Step-by-Step Solution

The emf of an electrochemical cell is the potential difference between the two electrodes. It can be expressed in different ways depending on whether standard oxidation or reduction potentials are used:

  1. In terms of both oxidation and reduction potentials: Ecell=Eoxidation(anode)+Ereduction(cathode)E_{cell} = E_{oxidation}(\text{anode}) + E_{reduction}(\text{cathode}). This matches statement (b).
  2. Since Ereduction=EoxidationE_{reduction} = - E_{oxidation}, we can substitute the reduction potential of the cathode to get: Ecell=Eoxidation(anode)Eoxidation(cathode)E_{cell} = E_{oxidation}(\text{anode}) - E_{oxidation}(\text{cathode}). This matches statement (d).
  3. Alternatively, in terms of reduction potentials only (IUPAC convention): Ecell=Ereduction(cathode)Ereduction(anode)E_{cell} = E_{reduction}(\text{cathode}) - E_{reduction}(\text{anode}).

Therefore, statements (b) and (d) correctly represent the relation for the emf of a cell.

Practice Mode Available

Master this Topic on Sushrut

Join thousands of students and practice with AI-generated mock tests.

Get Started
Solved: CHEMISTRY Question for NEET | Sushrut