galvaaniseen

Galvaaninen refers to phenomena related to electricity generated by chemical reactions, specifically those occurring in electrochemical cells. The term originates from the Italian physician Luigi Galvani, who in the late 18th century conducted experiments on frog legs and discovered that they twitched when touched by two different metals. This led to his theory of "animal electricity," though it was later refined by Alessandro Volta.

A key concept within galvaaninen is the galvanic cell, also known as a voltaic cell. This device converts chemical energy into electrical energy through spontaneous redox reactions. It typically consists of two half-cells, each containing an electrode immersed in an electrolyte solution. The electrodes are connected by an external circuit, and the electrolyte solutions are connected by a salt bridge or porous membrane, allowing ion flow to complete the circuit.

The driving force for the electron flow in a galvanic cell is the difference in the electrode potentials of the two half-cells, often quantified by the cell potential. Oxidation occurs at the anode (where electrons are released), and reduction occurs at the cathode (where electrons are consumed). This controlled flow of electrons constitutes an electric current. Examples of galvanic cells include common batteries, such as the zinc-carbon dry cell and the alkaline battery. The principles of galvaaninen also underpin electroplating and corrosion processes.