[123456789]

Hello,

If the anode is less reactive than a metal in the electrolyte, will the reaction still take place?

For example, The anode is copper, the electrolyte is zinc nitrate, and the cathode is silver in silver nitrate solution. There is a salt bridge and everything else, will a spontaneous reaction take place?

Thank you!~

[Vidya]

I think the difference in the reduction potential of Cu2+ and Ag+ is going to decide the spontaneity of the reaction.Anode is the electrode on which oxidation is taking place and releasing Cu2+ .There is no question of replacing Zn2+ here.
E⁰cell=E⁰(cathode) - E⁰(anode)=+ve value

[confusedstud]

I'm a little curious, what would be hindering the reaction? Since at the anode, the copper will form Cu2+ ions and some nitrate ions would flow down into the solution to balance the excess charge. While at the cathode, the solver ions will form silver while some sodium ions will flow down into the solution to balance the charges.

What seems to be the problem? Thanks.