An electrolytic cell and an electrochemical cell, specifically a galvanic cell, are both types of electrochemical systems that involve redox reactions but serve different purposes and operate under different conditions.
An electrolytic cell uses electrical energy to drive a non-spontaneous chemical reaction.
In contrast, a galvanic cell generates electrical energy from a spontaneous chemical reaction.
4 Key Points Explained:
1. Purpose and Energy Conversion:
Electrolytic Cell: Converts electrical energy into chemical energy. It requires an external power source to force a non-spontaneous reaction to occur.
Galvanic Cell: Converts chemical energy into electrical energy. It harnesses the energy from a spontaneous redox reaction to produce electricity.
2. Spontaneity of Reactions:
Electrolytic Cell: The reactions are non-spontaneous, meaning they require energy input to proceed. The Gibbs free energy is positive.
Galvanic Cell: The reactions are spontaneous, meaning they occur naturally without the need for an external energy source. The Gibbs free energy is negative.
3. Electrode Functions and Charges:
Electrolytic Cell: The anode is positive and the cathode is negative. Oxidation occurs at the anode, and reduction occurs at the cathode.
Galvanic Cell: The anode is negative and the cathode is positive. Oxidation occurs at the anode, and reduction occurs at the cathode.
4. Applications:
Electrolytic Cell: Used in processes like electrolysis for decomposition of compounds, electroplating, refining metals, and production of chemicals like caustic soda.
Galvanic Cell: Used as a source of electrical energy, foundational in batteries, and in applications where spontaneous chemical reactions are harnessed to produce electricity.
Understanding these key differences is crucial for a lab equipment purchaser, as it informs the selection of appropriate equipment for specific applications.
Whether the goal is to generate electricity from a chemical reaction or to induce a chemical change using electrical energy, the distinction between electrolytic and galvanic cells is fundamental.
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