A Smee cell, named after its inventor Alfred Smee, is a type of galvanic cell commonly used in scientific laboratories and educational settings. It consists of two electrodes, a zinc metal electrode and a platinum metal electrode, immersed in a solution of dilute sulfuric acid.
The zinc electrode acts as the negative electrode and is known as the anode, while the platinum electrode serves as the positive electrode or cathode. The dilute sulfuric acid solution facilitates the flow of ions and helps in the conduction of electricity. When the circuit is completed, the zinc metal oxidizes at its surface, releasing electrons that flow through the external circuit towards the platinum electrode. Meanwhile, positively charged hydrogen ions (H+) in the sulfuric acid solution migrate towards the platinum electrode, where reduction takes place, resulting in the formation of hydrogen gas (H2).
The Smee cell is often used as a simple and inexpensive power source for small appliances, electroplating experiments, and electrochemical investigations. Although it has a relatively low efficiency due to the use of zinc, which is readily consumed during the cell's operation, the Smee cell has the advantage of producing a steady and constant electric current. Moreover, it is relatively easy to assemble and requires minimal maintenance.
In summary, a Smee cell is a simple galvanic cell consisting of a zinc anode, a platinum cathode, and a sulfuric acid electrolyte, designed for experimental and educational purposes to generate a steady electric current.
