Question

A galvanic cell has electrical potential of $1.1 \,V$. If an opposing potential of $1.1 \,V$ is applied to this cell, what will happen to the cell reaction and current flowing through the cell ?

• A. The reaction stops and no current flows through the cell
• B. The reaction continuous but current flows in opposite direction
• C. The concentration of reactants becomes unity and current flows from cathode to anode
• D. The cell does not function as a galvanic cell and zinc is deposited on zinc plate

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

If an external potential of $1.1\,V$ is applied to the cell, the reaction stops and no current flows through the cell. Any further increase in external potential again starts the reaction but in opposite direction and the cell functions as an electrolytic cell.