Electrochemical voltage series of metals from potential differences of half cells with Cobra SMARTsense

Principle

The combination of different half-cells into galvanic cells results in different direct voltages, which depend on the electrode potentials of the metals and ions involved. By systematically measuring these potential differences and defining a reference electrode (e.g., the standard hydrogen electrode), the metals can be arranged in a specific order according to their tendency to release or accept electrons. This order is called the electrochemical series and enables predictions about the direction of spontaneous redox reactions as well as the relative nobility or reactivity of metals.

Tasks

1. Four different half-cells with zinc/zinc sulfate solution, copper/copper sulfate solution, lead/lead nitrate solution, and silver/silver nitrate solution are to be set up and combined into galvanic cells. The measurable direct voltages should lead to an arrangement of the four metals in a certain order.
2. The half-cells are combined in pairs to form galvanic cells (a total of 6 combinations).
3. The resulting direct voltages are measured.
4. The metals are arranged according to their electrode potential (from the least noble to the most noble metal).

Learning objective

Benefits

• The experiment is part of a complete set covering all major curricular topics in electrochemistry.
• Fast and simple experiment preparation (instructions and risk assessment available).
• Increased student motivation through the use of the intuitive measureAPP (freely available).
• Minimal preparation time: experimental literature for students and teachers available.
• Easy teaching and efficient learning when using the interactive experimental literature.