Question

The main function of a salt bridge in an electrochemical cell is to:

• A. Increase cell potential
• B. Decreases the reaction rate
• C. Maintain electrical neutrality in half-cells
• D. Increase the reaction rate

Hint:

The salt bridge lets ions flow between the half-cells so that charge does not build up.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept
In a galvanic cell, oxidation and reduction occur in two separate half-cells, and charges would accumulate in each as the reaction proceeds.

Step 2: Role of the salt bridge
The salt bridge contains an inert electrolyte. Its ions migrate into the half-cells and balance the charges.

Step 3: Compare the options
It keeps both solutions electrically neutral and completes the circuit. It does not raise the cell potential or change the rate by design.
This is option (C).

Final Answer:
The salt bridge maintains electrical neutrality in the half-cells. \[ \boxed{\text{(C) }\text{Maintain electrical neutrality in half-cells}} \]