Question

What are the importances of salt bridge in an electrochemical cell?

Hint:

The salt bridge is crucial for completing the electrical circuit in an electrochemical cell and ensuring the reaction continues without interference from charge buildup.

Answer 1

Step 1: Function of a Salt Bridge.
A salt bridge is an essential component of an electrochemical cell that maintains electrical neutrality by allowing the flow of ions between the two half-cells. It connects the anode and cathode compartments of the cell.
Step 2: Importance of the Salt Bridge.
- Maintaining electrical neutrality: The salt bridge helps maintain the balance of charges in the two half-cells by allowing ions to move between them. As oxidation occurs at the anode, positive ions accumulate, and as reduction occurs at the cathode, negative ions accumulate. The salt bridge neutralizes this charge buildup by providing a pathway for ion movement. - Prevention of liquid junction potential: The salt bridge prevents the formation of a potential difference between the two solutions due to the difference in ion concentrations, which could disrupt the cell's functioning. - Facilitating ion flow: It enables the flow of ions, which is necessary to complete the circuit and allow the redox reactions to proceed.
Step 3: Materials Used.
A common salt bridge is made of a gel containing a neutral salt like potassium chloride (KCl) or sodium sulfate (Na₂SO₄).
Final Answer: The salt bridge is important in an electrochemical cell for maintaining electrical neutrality, preventing liquid junction potential, and facilitating ion flow between the two half-cells.
Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{The salt bridge maintains electrical neutrality, prevents liquid junction potential, and facilitates ion flow in the electrochemical cell.}} \]