Difference Between emf and Potential Difference
Emf |
Potential difference |
It is the potential difference between two electrodes when no current is flowing in the circuit. | It is the difference of the electrode potentials of the two electrodes when the cell is under operation. |
It is the maximum voltage that the cell can deliver. | It is always less then the maximum value of voltage which the cell can deliver. |
It is responsible for the steady flow of current in the cell. | It is not responsible for the steady flow of current in the cell. |
Cell EMF and the spontaneity of the reaction : We know,
Nature of reaction | ![]() |
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Spontaneous | – | + |
Equilibrium | 0 | 0 |
Non – spontaneous | + | – |
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