Electrochemistry and Voltaic Cells

Question

As a standard voltaic cell runs, it "discharges" and the cell potential decreases with time. Explain.

Answer 1

[Answer:

Just think about a battery in a flashlight.  Eventually, your flashlight will not turn on because the battery has died, that is, its cell potential has dropped to 0 volts over time.  Think about the reduction and oxidation half-reactions.  Because they are simple arrow reactions (not equilibrium double arrows), if the reactants are not replenished, eventually, all the reactants will be used up and with that, your battery is declared dead.  Think about how a rechargeable battery works if you want to think a bit.]