The Effect of Different Electrodes on Voltage in a Voltaic Cell

Purpose: To observe the voltage change in using different metals in the same constant solutions.

Variables: 

  • Dependent: The dependent variables are the use of different metals as electrodes. The different metals that are to be used in this experiment are Zinc, Copper, and Tin. Independent: The independent will be the voltage change of the voltaic cell. This data will be recorded in the data table.
  • Controlled: The controlled variables will be:
  • The solutions used as the two half cells, Cu2+ and Zn2+. - Using different solutions would present a need to test the effect they have on the voltage of the cell.
  • The molarity of the two solutions- Using different molarities might potentially increase or decrease voltage.
  • The volume of the two solutions- Increasing volume of the solutions would affect the surface area of the metal in contact with the solution which could possibly affect voltage.
  • The solution used in the salt bridge- Different solutions may have an effect on voltage or ion movement.
  • The same Voltmeter will be used throughout the experiment-Different Voltmeters could have different readings.
  • The negative electrode will always be in the zinc (II) Solution and the positive electrode in the copper (II) solution. - Switching the electrodes would create a new variable to test.
Join now!

Equipment:

  • 2 150 mL Beakers
  • 1 glass salt bridge
  • Multiple cotton balls (depends on user and size of cotton balls available)
  • Copper (II) Solution
  • Zinc (II) Solution
  • Sodium Nitrate Solution
  • Voltmeter
  • 2 strips of each following metal: Zinc, Copper, and Tin

Above is a diagram of the beginning set up that will be used for each trial.

Method:

  1. Pour 100 mL of Copper (II) solution into one of you 150 mL beaker
  2. Pour 100 mL of Zinc (II) solution into the other 150 mL beaker
  3. Use a funnel to ...

This is a preview of the whole essay