What is the Difference Between Concentration Cell and Chemical Cell?

The main difference between a concentration cell and a chemical cell lies in the compositions of their half-cells. Here are the key differences:

• Concentration Cell: In a concentration cell, the compositions of the two half-cells are similar, but they differ in concentration. These cells produce voltage as the cell reaches an equilibrium by transferring electrons from the cell with the lower concentration to the one with the higher concentration. The standard electrode potential of a concentration cell is equal to zero because the electrodes are identical.
• Chemical Cell: In a chemical cell, the compositions of the two half-cells may or may not be similar. Chemical cells, also known as electrochemical cells, include both galvanic cells (which produce spontaneous redox reactions) and electrolytic cells.

Another difference between the two is that concentration cells are a type of galvanic cell, while chemical cells can be either galvanic or electrolytic cells. In summary, concentration cells are a specific type of electrochemical cell with similar half-cell compositions, while chemical cells can have different half-cell compositions and can be either galvanic or electrolytic cells.

Comparative Table: Concentration Cell vs Chemical Cell

Here is a table comparing the differences between concentration cells and chemical cells:

Please note that the Nernst Equation can be used to calculate the potential difference in concentration cells, but it is not applicable for calculating potential differences in general chemical cells.