Electrochemical cell
Electrochemical Cell
An Electrochemical Cell (pronunciation: /ɪˌlɛktrəʊkɛˈmɪk(ə)l sɛl/) is a device that generates electrical energy from chemical reactions or facilitates chemical reactions through the introduction of electrical energy.
Etymology
The term "Electrochemical Cell" is derived from the words "Electro", referring to electricity, and "Chemical", referring to the chemical reactions involved. The word "Cell" in this context refers to the individual unit of the device where the reactions take place.
Definition
An Electrochemical Cell consists of two half-cells. Each half-cell consists of an Electrode and an Electrolyte. The two half-cells may use different chemical solutions. The reactions in the two half-cells are called Redox reactions.
Types of Electrochemical Cells
There are two types of Electrochemical Cells: Galvanic Cell and Electrolytic Cell. Galvanic Cells generate electrical energy from spontaneous redox reactions, whereas Electrolytic Cells use electrical energy to drive non-spontaneous reactions.
Components of Electrochemical Cells
- Electrode: An electrode is a conductor where electrons can enter or leave the cell. There are two types of electrodes: Anode and Cathode.
- Electrolyte: An electrolyte is a substance that produces an electrically conducting solution when dissolved in a polar solvent.
Related Terms
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