Consider the cell represented below: Zn/Zn2+(aq) // Cu2+(aq) / Cu(s). Which of the following statements is correct about the cell
Answer Details
The correct statement about the cell represented as Zn/Zn2+(aq) // Cu2+(aq) / Cu(s) is that Zn is oxidized to Zn2+. In this cell, the zinc metal (Zn) is the anode, where oxidation occurs. Zn atoms lose electrons to form Zn2+ ions, which go into solution as Zn2+(aq). The electrons released in the oxidation of Zn are transferred through the external circuit to the cathode, which is the copper metal (Cu) electrode. The Cu2+ ions in solution gain electrons and are reduced to form copper metal, which deposits on the electrode as Cu(s). The double line in the cell notation represents the salt bridge, which completes the circuit by allowing the flow of ions between the two half-cells. It prevents the mixing of the solutions in the half-cells, which could disrupt the electrochemical reaction. Therefore, the correct option is "Zn is oxidized to Zn2+".