The function of the magnanese (IV) oxide in a leclanche cell is to
Answer Details
The function of manganese (IV) oxide in a Leclanche cell is to prevent polarization in the cell. When a Leclanche cell discharges, the zinc electrode releases electrons to the anode, forming zinc ions and releasing hydrogen ions in the electrolyte. As more and more hydrogen ions are produced, the concentration of hydrogen ions increases, and the cell's voltage drops, leading to a phenomenon known as polarization.
Manganese (IV) oxide acts as a depolarizer, which reacts with the hydrogen ions in the electrolyte to produce water and prevent the accumulation of hydrogen ions. This helps to maintain the voltage of the cell and prevent polarization. Therefore, option C, "prevent polarization in the cell," is the correct answer.