All about simple chemical cell

Introduction to a simple chemical cell

• In Electrolytic Cells, electricity is used to

produce chemical changes. As such, we say
that electrical energy is being converted into
chemical energy
• The reverse occurs in Simple Cells whereby
chemical energy is being converted into
electrical energy.
• “A simple cell consists of two solid electrodes
placed in an electrolyte connected together by
an electrical conductor such as wire.”
• The two electrodes must be two different
metals.
• Positive terminal and negative terminal for the
electrodes are determined according to the
electrochemical series.
– Negative terminal – Metal that is more
electropositive (higher in the electrochemical
series)
– Positive terminal – Metal that is less
electropositive (lower in the electrochemical
series)
Electrolytic cell vs Chemical cell
• The electrolyte can be acid solution, alkaline
solution, salt solution or even a fruit such as
orange or lemon
• The voltage produced depends on the
positions of the two metals in the reactivity
series. The further away the metals are in the
electrochemical series, the larger will be the
voltage.
• For example, magnesium/copper electrodes
pair will give a larger voltage than zinc/copper
electrodes pair.
Application of Chemical Cell