Determine the redox reaction represented by the following cell notation.

Question

Determine the redox reaction represented by the following cell notation.

Cd(s) ∣ Cd²⁺(aq) ‖ Pb²⁺(aq) ∣ Pb(s)

Answer 1

According to standard convention, we put the cathode on the right side and the anode on the left side of the shorthand notation. Thus...

Cd = anode (oxidation takes place here)

Pb = cathode (reduction takes place here)

Cd(s) ==> Cd²⁺(aq) + 2e- (oxidation rxn)

Pb²⁺(aq) + 2e- ==> Pb(s) (reduction rxn)

------------------------------------

Cd(s) + Pb²⁺(aq) ==> Cd²⁺(aq) + Pb(s) (redox rxn)