Electrochemistry
Electrochemistry is a branch of physical chemistry that studies the relationship between electricity and chemical reactions. It involves the study of processes where electrons are transferred between molecules, leading to the conversion of chemical energy into electrical energy or vice versa. Electrochemical reactions take place in systems called electrochemical cells, which consist of two electrodes (conductors that allow the flow of electrons) immersed in an electrolyte (a substance that conducts ions). There are two main types of electrochemical cells: galvanic cells (also known as voltaic cells) and electrolytic cells. Galvanic Cells (Voltaic Cells): These cells convert chemical energy into electrical energy spontaneously. Example: The classic example is the Daniell cell, which consists of a copper electrode (Cu) and a zinc electrode (Zn) immersed in a solution of copper sulfate (CuSO₄) and zinc sulfate (ZnSO₄) electrolytes. In this cell, zinc undergoes oxidation, releasing electro...