Calculate the standard cell potential for a voltaic cell that uses Li/Li+ and Mn/Mn2+ half reactions. If your cell phone required 1.5 V to charge, would this voltaic cell work? Explain.

Answer 1

Look up the standard reduction potentials for the two half reactions.

Li⁺ + e- ==> Li Eº = -3.04 V (anode)

Mn²⁺ + 2e- ==> Mn Eº = -1.185 V (cathode)

Eºcell = -1.185 + 3.04 = 1.86 V

If you required 1.5 V, this cell would work for your purpose since it will supply 1.86 V