WAEC Chemistry 2010 Paper

Concept:In standard cell notation, the anode is written on the left and the cathode on the right.Explanation:The given cell notation is $\mathrm{Mg/Mg^{2+}//Cu^{2+}/Cu}$.Magnesium is written on the left side of the notation.In a galvanic cell, the left electrode is always the anode.At the anode, oxidation occurs: $\mathrm{Mg \rightarrow Mg^{2+} + 2e^-}$.Therefore, magnesium is oxidised and acts as the anode.Copper, written on the right, is the cathode where reduction occurs: $\mathrm{Cu^{2+} + 2e^- \rightarrow Cu}$.The double line $//$ represents the salt bridge, not the electrodes.Answer:C. Magnesium is the anode