In the button cells widely used in watches and other devices the following reaction takes place:

Zn(s) + Ag2O(s) + H2O(l) Zn2+ (aq) + 2Ag(s) + 2OH(aq). Determine ΔrG0 and E0 for the reaction.

Given - Zn Zn2 + + 2e - , E0 = 0.76V (anode)


Ag2O + H2O + 2e - 2Ag + 2OH - , E0 = 0.344V (cathode), n = 2


ΔrG0 = ?


E0cell = ?


Zn is oxidized and Ag2O is reduced.


Hence, the standard cell potential, E0cell is given as,


E0cell = E0R - E0L


E0cell = 0.344 + 0.76


E0cell = 1.104 V


To calculate the standard Gibb’s free energy, ∆rG0, we use,


rG0 = - nE0F Equation 1


= - 2×96487×1.104 J


= - 213043.296 J


rG0 = - 2.13×105 J


The standard cell potential, E0cell is 1.104 V and the standard Gibb’s free energy, ∆rG0 is - 2.13×105 J


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