An electrolytic cell uses electrical energy to drive a non-spontaneous chemical reaction, typically involving the decomposition of compounds, while a galvanic (or voltaic) cell generates electrical energy from spontaneous chemical reactions. In an electrolytic cell, the anode is positive and the cathode is negative, whereas in a galvanic cell, the anode is negative and the cathode is positive. Additionally, electrolytic cells require an external power source, while galvanic cells operate independently by harnessing the energy from chemical reactions.
In an electrolytic cell
In an electrolytic cell, an external power source is needed to drive a non-spontaneous redox reaction, while in a voltaic cell, the redox reaction is spontaneous and generates electric energy. In an electrolytic cell, the anode is positive and the cathode is negative, whereas in a voltaic cell, the anode is negative and the cathode is positive.
An electrolytic cell
Electrolytic cell
A galvanic cell can become an electrolytic cell by applying an external voltage that is of opposite polarity to the cell's spontaneous voltage. This external voltage can overcome the natural tendency of the cell to generate electricity and drive a non-spontaneous chemical reaction in the reverse direction, converting it into an electrolytic cell.
Electrons flow in the opposite direction.
Electrons flow in the opposite direction.
In an electrolytic cell
Diagram of electrolytic cell
Reduction occurs at the cathode in an electrolytic cell.
In an electrolytic cell, the anode is positive.
In an electrolytic cell, an external power source is needed to drive a non-spontaneous redox reaction, while in a voltaic cell, the redox reaction is spontaneous and generates electric energy. In an electrolytic cell, the anode is positive and the cathode is negative, whereas in a voltaic cell, the anode is negative and the cathode is positive.
In an electrolytic cell, the anode is designated as positive.
An electrolytic cell
Oxidation occurs at the anode of an electrolytic cell.
Electrolytic cell
oxidation