Chemical Cells and Potential Difference Flashcards

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What is a chemical cell?

A chemical cell is a device. Chemicals in it react to give a voltage and a current.

What two main parts are needed to make a simple chemical cell?

You need two different metals as electrodes. You also need an electrolyte solution between them.

What is meant by potential difference in a circuit?

Potential difference is the push on charges in a circuit. It tells you how much energy each unit of charge gains.

What is the unit and symbol for potential difference?

The unit for potential difference is the volt. Its symbol is V.

In a chemical cell, what energy change happens when it supplies a current?

Chemical energy in the reactants changes to electrical energy in the circuit. Some energy is also given out as heat.

What is an electrolyte in a chemical cell?

An electrolyte is a liquid or solution that contains ions. It lets charge pass between the two electrodes.

How does the difference in reactivity of the two metals affect the voltage of a cell?

The bigger the difference in reactivity, the larger the voltage. A cell with metals far apart in the reactivity series gives more voltage.

How does changing the electrolyte affect the voltage produced by a cell?

Different electrolytes give different voltages. This is because they have different ions that take part in the reactions.

How can you increase the total voltage from cells in a circuit?

Connect the cells in series, one after another. The voltages then add up.

What is a battery in terms of chemical cells?

A battery is two or more chemical cells joined in series. This gives a higher total voltage than one cell.

What is a non-rechargeable cell?

It is a cell where the chemical reactions cannot be reversed. Once the reactants are used up, the cell goes flat and cannot be recharged.

What is a rechargeable cell?

It is a cell where a current from a power supply can reverse the reactions. This lets the cell be used and recharged many times.