Q21.84 - Chemistry: Molecular Nature Of Matter And Change

Question

Why are E half-cell values for the oxidation and reduction of water different from E° half-cell values for the same processes? In an aqueous electrolytic cell, nitrate ions never react at the anode, but nitrite ions do. Explain.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Because the concentrations of and in solution are varied from the conventional value of  $1.0\text{M}$.

Step 1: Understand the question

The question asks: Why are E half-cell values for the oxidation and reduction of water different from E° half-cell values for the same processes? In an aqueous electrolytic cell, nitrate ions never react at the anode, but nitrite ions do. Explain.

Step 2: Apply Chemistry knowledge

Using fundamental Chemistry concepts to analyze the problem.

Step 3: Formulate the answer

Because the concentrations of and in solution are varied from the conventional value of 1.0 M .

Step 4: Conclude

The answer is: Because the concentrations of and in solution are varied from the conventional value of 1.0 M .