Question

By referring to electrochemical series, how can anode and cathode half cells be identified in a galvanic cell?

Answer 1

The anode of a galvanic cell is where oxidation happens, and the cathode is where reduction happens. Based on the standard electrode potentials (E° values), the electrochemical series aids in identifying these electrodes.

The more negative (lower) electrode E° value functions as the anode and experiences oxidation.

The more positive (higher) electrode The value of E° is reduced and serves as the cathode.

For example: Zn²⁺/Zn (E° = −0.76 V) and Cu²⁺/Cu (E° = +0.34 V)

Cu²⁺ gets electrons (reduction at cathode) while Zn loses electrons (oxidation at anode) due to its lower E°.