Which of the following is true for a dry cell? a) It contains boric acid, which is a solid acid. b) The graphite rod does not undergo reduction, even though it is the cathode. c) It can be recharged many times. d) all of the above
A dry cells has b) The graphite rod does not undergo reduction, even though it is the cathode.
Answer: b) The graphite rod does not undergo reduction, even though it is the cathode.
Explanation: Dry cell, is compact form of Leclanche cell. It consists of a cylindrical zinc container which acts as anode. A graphite rod which acts as cathode is placed in the center and is coated with powdered \(MnO_2\) and carbon. The in between space is filled with a paste of \(NH_4Cl\) and \(ZnCl_2\)
At anode: Oxidation
\(Zn\rightarrow Zn%{2+}+2e^-\)
At cathode: Reduction
\(2MnO_2+2NH_4^++2e^-\rightarrow Mn_2O_3+2NH_3+H_2O\)
Thus it is \(MnO_2\) and not graphite which undergoes reduction.