Question

Predict whether F₂ and Na will react together:

\[\ce{E^{\circ}_{F/F^-}}\] = +2.87 V, \[\ce{E^{\circ}_{{Na^{+}/{Na}}}}\] = −2.71 V

Answer 1

The standard electrode potential of a cell is:

\[\ce{E{^{\circ}_{cell}} = E{^{\circ}_{cathode}} - E{^{\circ}_{anode}}}\]

The reaction is:

\[\ce{F2_{(g)} + 2Na = 2F+ + 2F-}\]

So, E° = 2 × 2.87 − 2 × 2.71

= 5.74 − 5.42

= 0.32 V

∴ The F₂ and Na will react together as the value of E° is positive.