Question
A galvanic cell consist copper electrode and standard hydrogen electrode. If E^ ( Cu ^ +2 _ (aq) | Cu _ (s) ) = +0.34\, V , then identify a reaction taking place at positive electrode during working of cell.
MHT CET
Chemistry
Electrochemistry
2026
MHT CET 2026 (18 April Shift 2)
MHT CET Chemistry Question (2026) — Solution
Options
- A. Cu _ (s) Cu ^ +2 _ (aq) + 2e^-
- B. Cu ^ +2 _ (aq) + 2e^- Cu _ (s)
- C. H _2 (g) 2 H ^+_ (aq) + 2e^-
- D. H ^+_ (aq) + 2e^- H _2 (g)
Answer
B. Cu ^ +2 _ (aq) + 2e^- Cu _ (s)
Step-by-step solution
Given E^ ( Cu ^ +2 / Cu ) = +0.34\, V and E^ ( H ^+/ H _2) = 0.00\, V . Since the standard reduction potential of the copper electrode is greater than that of the standard hydrogen electrode, copper acts as the cathode and the hydrogen electrode acts as the anode. In a galvanic cell, the cathode is the positive electrode where reduction takes place. The reduction reaction at the positive electrode (copper cathode) is: Cu ^ +2 _ (aq) + 2e^- Cu _ (s)
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