Problem #34 Cell [Solved]

Question: Without going into scientific and technical details, briefly explain the difference between the following terms: Electrochemical cell, Galvanic (Voltaic) cell, Electrolytic cell?

Answer:

- The term Electrochemical cell can be used to indicate any set up where (i) a redox chemical reaction takes place spontaneously and produces electricity, or (ii) a non-spontaneous redox chemical reaction takes place on application of an external electrical current.

- The term Galvanic/Voltaic cell is used to indicate a set up where a redox spontaneous chemical reaction takes place and produces electricity. This is the same as Electrochemical Cell (i) above. Example: Flashlight batteries.

- The term Electrolytic cell is used to indicate a set up where a non-spontaneous redox chemical reaction is caused to happen by application of an external electrical current. This is the same as Electrochemical Cell (ii) above. Examples: Recharging of a vehicle battery; Production of metals by Electrolysis.

N.B: As you can see, the term Electrochemical cell encompasses the two other terms; although you may find that in many books, Electrochemical cell term is used to indicate Galvanic/Voltaic cell!