celldiagram.worldChemistry · Electrochemical Cell
Galvanic Cell Diagram
This galvanic cell diagram uses the classic zinc-copper Daniell cell to make electron and ion movement explicit.
Interactive vector diagram — click a part, hide labels, or download a 300 DPI PNG / editable SVG.
Diagram labels and functions
| Structure / stage | Function |
|---|---|
| Zinc anode | Zinc atoms oxidize to Zn²⁺. |
| Copper cathode | Cu²⁺ ions reduce to copper metal. |
| Salt bridge | Anions move toward the anode and cations toward the cathode. |
| Electron flow | Electrons move from zinc to copper. |
| Voltmeter | Measures the potential difference. |
The Daniell cell reaction
Zinc is oxidized at the anode: Zn → Zn²⁺ + 2e⁻. Copper ions are reduced at the cathode: Cu²⁺ + 2e⁻ → Cu.
Reading cell notation
The same cell can be written Zn | Zn²⁺ || Cu²⁺ | Cu. Single lines mark phase boundaries and the double line represents the salt bridge.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a galvanic cell diagram?
A diagram of two connected half-cells that generate electricity from a spontaneous redox reaction.
Which electrode loses mass in a Daniell cell?
The zinc anode loses mass as zinc atoms enter solution as Zn²⁺.
What does the double line mean in cell notation?
It represents the salt bridge or liquid junction.
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galvanic cell diagram