For each of the following reactions, write a balanced equation, calculate the standard emf, calculate ∆G° at 298 K, and calculate the equilibrium constant K at 298 K. (b) In acidic solution, copper(I) ion is oxidized to copper(II) ion by nitrate ion.
Ch.20 - Electrochemistry

Brown15th EditionChemistry: The Central ScienceISBN: 9780137542970Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 20, Problem 56c
For each of the following reactions, write a balanced equation, calculate the standard emf, calculate ∆G° at 298 K, and calculate the equilibrium constant K at 298 K. (c) In basic solution, Cr1OH231s2 is oxidized to CrO42-1aq2 by ClO-1aq2.
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Write the balanced redox reaction.
Step 2: Calculate the standard cell potential (E°cell) using standard reduction potentials.
Step 3: Use the Nernst equation to calculate the standard Gibbs free energy change (∆G°) at 298 K.
Step 4: Use the relationship between ∆G° and the equilibrium constant (K) to calculate K at 298 K.
Step 5: Verify the balanced equation and calculations for consistency and accuracy.

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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Balancing Redox Reactions
Balancing redox reactions involves ensuring that the number of atoms and the charge are equal on both sides of the equation. This process often requires identifying the oxidation and reduction half-reactions, balancing them separately, and then combining them to form a complete balanced equation. In this case, understanding the oxidation states of chromium in Cr(OH)2 and CrO4^2- is essential.
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Standard Electromotive Force (emf)
The standard electromotive force (emf) of a reaction is the voltage produced by an electrochemical cell under standard conditions. It can be calculated using the standard reduction potentials of the half-reactions involved. A positive emf indicates a spontaneous reaction, while a negative emf suggests non-spontaneity. This concept is crucial for determining the feasibility of the redox reaction in question.
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Gibbs Free Energy and Equilibrium Constant
Gibbs free energy (∆G°) is a thermodynamic quantity that indicates the spontaneity of a reaction at constant temperature and pressure. The relationship between ∆G° and the equilibrium constant (K) is given by the equation ∆G° = -RT ln(K), where R is the gas constant and T is the temperature in Kelvin. This relationship allows for the calculation of K from ∆G° and vice versa, providing insight into the position of equilibrium for the reaction.
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Related Practice
Textbook Question
Textbook Question
For each of the following reactions, write a balanced equation, calculate the standard emf, calculate ∆G° at 298 K, and calculate the equilibrium constant K at 298 K. (a) Aqueous iodide ion is oxidized to I21s2 by Hg22+1aq2.
Textbook Question
Given the following reduction half-reactions:
Fe3+(aq) + e- → Fe2+(aq) E°red = +0.77 V
S2O62-(aq) + 4 H+(aq) + 2 e- → 2 H2SO3(aq) E°red = +0.60 V
N2O(g) + 2 H+(aq) + 2 e- → N2(g) + H2O(l) E°red = -1.77 V
VO2+(aq) + 2 H+(aq) + e- → VO2+ + H2O(l) E°red = +1.00 V
(c) Calculate the equilibrium constant K for each reaction at 298 K.
Textbook Question
From each of the following pairs of substances, use data in Appendix E to choose the one that is the stronger reducing agent: (d) BrO3-1aq2 or IO3-1aq2
