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Electrochemistry & Redox

Cell Potential

The difference in electrical potential between the two electrodes of an electrochemical cell.

Formula / equation E_cell = E_red(cathode) − E_red(anode)
Unit V

In depth

A positive cell potential means the reaction as written is spontaneous. The value depends on the identity of the electrodes, the concentrations of the solutions and the temperature, and it falls to zero when the cell reaction reaches equilibrium — a flat battery.

Examples in the real world

The Daniell cell's 1.10 V from +0.34 V minus −0.76 V under standard conditions.