How can an electrochemical cell be converted into an electrolytic cell?

Question

Canvas Classes · Accepted Answer

Strategy:
 Distinguish between a galvanic cell (converts chemical energy to electrical) and an electrolytic cell (uses electrical energy to drive a non-spontaneous chemical change).

Analysis:
A galvanic (electrochemical) cell has a spontaneous reaction producing a potential .
To reverse the natural flow and drive the non-spontaneous reaction:
1. Apply an external potential () in the opposite direction.
2. If , the cell is forced to run in reverse.
3. In this state, it functions as an electrolyt

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