Chapter 20, Problem 64A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The reason of electron flow in a voltaic cell is to be explained.

Concept introduction:

Electrons move from one place to another due to a difference in electric potential, which is a measure of the work done to move a charge from infinity to a reference point.

Answer to Problem 64A

Electrons move from one electrode to another in a voltaic cell due to the difference in electric potential between the two electrodes. The positive electrode is at a high potential while the negative potential is at a lower potential and electrons move from lower to higher potential therefore from one electrode to the other.

Explanation of Solution

Electrons are the carriers of negative charge and in a voltaic cell the anode is at a high electric potential and the cathode is at a lower electric potential. As a tendency to reduce the potential difference the electrons move from the negative electrode towards the positive electrode.

Conclusion

Electrons move from one electrode to the other due to difference in the electric potential between the two electrodes.