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