DELHI PUBLIC SCHOOL,

DELINA BARAMULLA

Physics project on “A Comprehensive Study of Electrochemical

Cells”

Submitted to: Submitted by:

Mister Shahbaz Damanpreet Singh

 DELHI PUBLIC SCHOOL
BARAMULLA

CERTIFICATE

Thiss is to certify that Damanpreet Singh of class XII has successfully carried out the
investigatory project entitled ““A
A Comprehensive Study of Electrochemical Cells.”
under the supervision of MR. Shahbaz for the academic year of 2023-24.
2023 All the
work related to the project is done by the candid
candidate
ate herself. The approach
towards the subject has been sincere and scientific.
Acknowledgement

As a student of class XII, I did this project as a part of my studies entitled “A

Comprehensive Study of Electrochemical Cells. I owe a deep sense of gratitude to
my physics teacher whose valuable advice and guidance helped me in doing this
project from conception to completion. At the same time, I can't forget to express
my thankfulness to the Principal of our School for extending his generous
patronage and constant encouragement. Finally, I am thankful to my parents for
helping me economically and my friends for giving me a helping hand at every
step of the project.

(Signature of Student)
INTRODUCTION
Electrochemical cells are fascinating devices that have widespread applications in
our daily lives, ranging from powering our smartphones to storing renewable
energy. In this project, I will delve into the world of electrochemical cells,
exploring their types, components, working principles, applications, and the
factors that influence their performance.

SECTION 1: Types of Electrochemical Cell

1.1. Galvanic (Voltaic) Cells:

Galvanic cells are a type of electrochemical cell that generates electricity through
spontaneous redox reactions. They are commonly found in batteries and power
sources.

Example: The copper-zinc galvanic cell, which powers many household devices.

1.2. Electrolytic Cells:

Electrolytic cells, on the other hand, operate through non-spontaneous redox

reactions and require an external power source to drive the reaction. They are
used in processes like electroplating and water splitting.

Example: The electrolytic cell used for electroplating objects with a layer of metal.

Section 2: Components of an Electrochemical Cell

2.1. Electrodes:
Electrodes are crucial components in electrochemical cells. The anode is where
oxidation occurs, and the cathode is where reduction takes place.

2.2. Electrolyte:

Electrolytes are substances that facilitate the flow of ions between the electrodes,
completing the circuit.

2.3. Salt Bridge:

In galvanic cells, a salt bridge maintains ionic balance between the two half-cells,
preventing charge buildup.

Section 3: How Electrochemical Cells Work

3.1. Redox Reactions:

Redox reactions involve the transfer of electrons from the anode to the cathode,
driving the flow of electric current.

3.2. Electron Flow:

Electrons flow from the anode to the cathode through an external circuit,
allowing us to harness electrical energy.

Section 4: Applications of Electrochemical Cells

4.1. Batteries:

Batteries are perhaps the most common application of electrochemical cells. They
power countless devices, from toys to electric vehicles.

Example: The lithium-ion battery, known for its high energy density.

4.2. Fuel Cells:

Fuel cells offer a clean and efficient way to generate electricity. They use
hydrogen and oxygen to produce electricity and water.

Example: Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cells used in hydrogen-powered

vehicles.

4.3. Corrosion Prevention:

Electrochemical cells are used to prevent corrosion in metal structures by
controlling the flow of electrons.

Example: Cathodic protection systems for pipelines.

4.4. Electroplating and Electrorefining:

Industries utilize electrochemical cells for processes like electroplating objects

with a layer of metal and refining metals.

Example: Electrorefining of copper to obtain high-purity copper.

4.5. Electrolysis:

Electrolysis is employed to split water into hydrogen and oxygen, a key process in
green hydrogen production.

Example: Electrolysis of water using renewable energy sources.

Section 5: Factors Affecting Electrochemical Cell Performance

5.1. Temperature:
Temperature affects reaction rates, and understanding this factor is crucial for
optimizing cell performance.

5.2. Concentration of Reactants:

The concentration of reactants influences the voltage and current output of

electrochemical cells.

5.3. Surface Area of Electrodes:

A larger electrode surface area can enhance cell efficiency by allowing more redox
reactions to occur.

Section 6: Experimental Demonstration of a Galvanic Cell

6.1. Materials Needed:

Copper and zinc electrodes

Salt bridge

Electrolyte solution (copper sulfate and zinc sulfate)

6.2. Procedure:

Set up the galvanic cell as described in the experiment.

Observe the voltage measurements.

6.3. Data Collection:

Record voltage measurements and note any observations.

6.4. Data Analysis:

Analyze the experimental data to understand how the cell generates electricity.

Section 7: Conclusion

In conclusion, electrochemical cells are incredible devices with a wide range of

applications, from powering our everyday devices to facilitating clean energy
production and industrial processes. Understanding their types, components,
working principles, applications, and the factors that influence their performance
is essential in harnessing their potential.

Section 8: References

All the data in this project has been taken from ncert books and wikipedia.

Thank you.