We’re being asked to write the overall chemical reaction for the fuel cell, and list the product(s) released from the cell.
Recall the mnemonics LEO GER.
Lose Gain
Electron Electrons
Oxidation Reduction
An illustration of an ethanol fuel cell is given below:
The half reactions (written as reductions) for the fuel cell at 25 °C are given below.
O2 (g) + 4 H3O+ (aq) + 4 e- → 6 H2O (l) ε°red = 1.23 V
CH3COOH (aq) + 4 H3O+ (aq) + 4 e- → CH3CH2OH (aq) + 5 H2O (l) ε°red = ???
acetic acid ethanol
Write the overall chemical reaction for the fuel cell, and list the product(s) released from the cell.
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What scientific concept do you need to know in order to solve this problem?
Our tutors have indicated that to solve this problem you will need to apply the Redox Reaction concept. You can view video lessons to learn Redox Reaction. Or if you need more Redox Reaction practice, you can also practice Redox Reaction practice problems.