Question

Which of the following represents the cathode half cell of a Daniell cell?

• A. $Zn$ rod in $CuS{O}_4$ solution
• B. $Zn$ rod in $ZnS{O}_4$ solution
• C. $Cu$ rod in $ZnS{O}_4$ solution
• D. $Cu$ rod in $CuS{O}_4$ solution

Answer 1

The correct option is D $Cu$ rod in $CuS{O}_4$ solution

One of the most popular galvanic cell is the Daniell cell. Spontaneous redox reaction is used here to produce electricity.
The redox reaction occur in Daniell cell is:
$Zn\left(s\right)+C{u}^{2+}\left(aq\right)\to Z{n}^{2+}\left(aq\right)+Cu\left(s\right)$

Anode half cell is zinc rod in zinc sulphate solution.
Anodic half cell reaction is:
$Zn\left(s\right)\to Z{n}^{2+}\left(aq\right)+2e^{-}$

Cathode half cell is copper rod in copper sulphate solution.
Cathodic half cell reaction is:
$C{u}^{2+}\left(aq\right)+2e^{-}\to Cu\left(s\right)$

Thus, option (b) is correct.