E Cell Calculator
Calculate the cell potential of electrochemical cells using the Nernst equation. Determine how concentration and temperature affect the voltage of galvanic cells.
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter the standard cell potential (E°cell) in volts
- Input the temperature in Kelvin (298K for room temperature)
- Enter the number of electrons transferred in the redox reaction
- Provide the reaction quotient (Q) and click Calculate to see the cell potential
Formula Used
E = E° - (RT/nF) × ln(Q)
Where:
- E = Cell potential under non-standard conditions (V)
- E° = Standard cell potential (V)
- R = Gas constant = 8.314 J/(mol·K)
- T = Temperature in Kelvin (K)
- n = Number of electrons transferred
- F = Faraday's constant = 96,485 C/mol
- Q = Reaction quotient
Example Calculation
Real-World Scenario:
Calculating the voltage of a zinc-copper galvanic cell at 25°C with non-standard concentrations.
Given:
- Standard potential (E°) = 1.10 V
- Temperature = 298 K
- Electrons transferred (n) = 2
- Reaction quotient (Q) = 0.01
Calculation:
E = 1.10 - (8.314 × 298 / (2 × 96485)) × ln(0.01)
E = 1.10 - (0.01284) × (-4.605)
E = 1.10 + 0.0591
Result: 1.159 V (higher than standard due to low Q value)
Why This Calculation Matters
Practical Applications
- Battery design and optimization
- Corrosion prevention in metal structures
- Electroplating and metal recovery processes
- Fuel cell efficiency calculations
Key Benefits
- Predict cell voltage under various conditions
- Understand concentration effects on cell potential
- Design electrochemical systems efficiently
- Optimize energy output from galvanic cells
Common Mistakes & Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
References & Disclaimer
Educational Disclaimer
This calculator is for educational purposes only. The calculations are based on the Nernst equation and standard electrochemical principles. For professional applications, consult with electrochemistry experts and verify calculations with experimental data.
References
- Standard Reduction Potentials Table - Comprehensive table of standard electrode potentials
- Nernst Equation Applications - Research paper on practical applications of the Nernst equation
- Electrochemical Cell Calculations - Educational resource on electrochemical calculations
Accuracy Notice
This calculator assumes ideal conditions and may not account for activity coefficients, overpotential, or other real-world factors. Results are approximate and should be verified experimentally for critical applications.
About the Author
Kumaravel Madhavan
Web developer and data researcher creating accurate, easy-to-use calculators across health, finance, education, and construction and more. Works with subject-matter experts to ensure formulas meet trusted standards like WHO, NIH, and ISO.