Applications of Redox Reactions

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Many useful processes are based on oxidation-reduction (redox) reactions.

Metallurgical processes

Metal oxides are reduced to metals using suitable reducing agents. For example Fe₂O₃ is reduced to iron in a blast furnace using coke. Al₂O₃ is reduced to aluminium by cathodic reduction in an electrolytic cell.

Photosynthesis

Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants convert carbon dioxide and water into carbohydrates in presence of light.

CO₂ is reduced to a carbohydrate and water is oxidized to oxygen. The activation energy required for this reaction is provided by sunlight.

Combustion of fuels and foods

Combustion of fuels is an oxidation reaction. Fuels are the most important source of energy that meets our daily needs. On combustion (oxidation accompanied by heat and light) they produce heat and light energies.

Fuels (wood, gas, kerosene, petrol)

[other products] + energy

In living cells, glucose, C₆H₁₂O₆ is oxidized to CO₂ and water in the presence of oxygen and energy is released. This energy is utilized by the body for doing physical and mental work.

Energy generation

Many electrochemical cells based on redox reactions are used for generating electricity. For example, electrical energy for space applications is met out of reaction between hydrogen and oxygen used in fuel cells, with hydrogen and oxygen electrodes.

Problem

16. Calculate the EMF of the cell at 25°C:

Given that E°

Solution

The cell is

Cu (s) Cu²⁺ (0.1 M) Ag⁺ (0.1M) Ag (s)

The electrode and cell reaction are:

The Nernst Equation is:

E = 0.46 - 0.0295

= 0.43 V.