A standard galvanic cell is constructed by coupling a standard copper electrode and a standard magne — Electrochemistry Chemistry Question
Question
A standard galvanic cell is constructed by coupling a standard copper electrode and a standard magnesium electrode. The measured standard cell potential ($E^\circ_{cell}$) is $2.70\text{ V}$. If the standard reduction potential of the copper electrode is $+0.34\text{ V}$, what is the standard reduction potential (in Volts) of the magnesium electrode?
Answer: -2.36
💡 Solution & Explanation
Magnesium is highly reactive and acts as the anode, while Copper acts as the cathode. The standard cell potential is given by $E^\circ_{cell} = E^\circ_{cathode} - E^\circ_{anode} = E^\circ_{Cu} - E^\circ_{Mg}$. Substituting the known values: $2.70 = 0.34 - E^\circ_{Mg} \implies E^\circ_{Mg} = 0.34 - 2.70 = -2.36\text{ V}$.
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