Explain that external opposite potential is applied in a galvanic cell...
External Opposite Potential in a Galvanic Cell
When an external opposite potential is applied to a galvanic cell, it means that a voltage of opposite polarity to the cell's voltage is connected to the cell. This external voltage competes with the cell's voltage, opposing the spontaneous flow of electrons in the cell.
Continuation of Reaction
As the external opposite potential is increased slowly, the reaction in the cell continues to take place. This is because the cell's voltage is being counteracted by the external voltage, allowing the reaction to proceed against the natural tendency.
Opposite Voltage Reaches 1.1
The reaction in the cell will continue to occur until the external opposite potential reaches a value of 1.1 volts. At this point, the external voltage is strong enough to completely counteract the cell's voltage, halting the reaction in the cell. This is because the external potential has now reached a point where it is greater than the cell's potential, causing the electrons to flow in the opposite direction.
In summary, the application of an external opposite potential in a galvanic cell can allow the reaction to continue even against the cell's natural voltage. However, once the external voltage reaches a certain value (1.1 volts in this case), it will stop the reaction from occurring in the cell.