The function of the ammonium chloride solution in a leclanche cell is to
A. decrease the e.m. \(f\) of the cell B. prevent local action in the cell C. prevent polarization of the cell D. act as the electrolyte of the cell
Correct Answer: D
Explanation
Acts as the electrolyte of the cell - The Leclanche cell is the most common type of primary cell (especially the dry Leclanche cell). It is of two types: the dry Leclanche cell and the wet Leclanche cell. The Leclanche cell is mostly applicable where intermittent current is desired. It is used domestically in electrical equipment, such as remote controls, torch lights. toys, wall clock et cetera. It has an e.m.f of \(1.5 V\) and it is not suitable for given a current of long duration. While the wet cell uses Ammonium chloride solution as the electrolyte, the dry cell uses a paste of ammonium chloride. - The Leclanche cell (both wet and dry) has zinc metal as the negative terminal which contains the electrolyte (Ammonium chloride) and a carbon rod as the positive terminal. - The depolarizer is a mixture of carbon and manganese dioxide Note further - As a way of comparison, another simple cell called the Daniel cell can be compared with the Leclanche cell as shown in the table below
