Question

Given the two half-cell reactions for copper and iron below

2

2

standard

electrode potential (V)

2 -0.41

Cu Cu 2 +0.34

Fe Fe e

e

+ −

+ −

→ +

→ +

Would you use a water pipe that consists of the two metals? Justify your answer!

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Answer 1

No, i will not use a water pipe consisting of the two metals

Step-by-step explanation:

Looking at the reduction potential of the both metals, it is clear that an electrochemical cell is set up with iron as the anode and copper as the cathode.

This will make the iron to quickly corrode and eventually destroy the water pipe. It is better to have a set up in which another metal that is higher than iron in the electrochemical series is combined with it.