Question

For the given cell, \[\ce{Mg | Mg^{2+} || Cu^{2+} | Cu}\]

(i) \[\ce{Mg}\] is cathode

(ii) \[\ce{Cu}\] is cathode

(iii) The cell reaction is \[\ce{Mg^+ Cu^{2+} -> Mg^{2+} + Cu}\]

(iv) \[\ce{Cu}\] is the oxidising agent

Answer 1

(ii) \[\ce{Cu}\] is cathode

(iii) The cell reaction is \[\ce{Mg^+ Cu^{2+} -> Mg^{2+} + Cu}\]

Explanation:

(i) Left side of cell reaction represents oxidation half-cell i.e., oxidation of \[\ce{Mg}\] and right side of cell represents reduction half-cell reactions i.e., reduction of copper.

(ii) \[\ce{Cu}\] is reduced and reduction occurs at cathode.

(iii) \[\ce{Mg}\] is oxidized and oxidation occurs at anode.

(iv) Whole cell reaction can be written as