Question

Distinguish between electrolytic cell and galvanic cell.

Answer 1

Hint: In chemistry we read about various kinds of cells which have different properties and working principles. Cells basically involve chemical reactions and based upon its spontaneity we can divide cells into the two given types i.e. Galvanic and electrolytic. To answer this think of the mechanism involved in each of the given cells.

Complete step by step answer:

Galvanic Cell	Electrolytic Cell
Galvanic cells chemical energy produces electricity with the help of spontaneous redox reactions.	Electrolytic cells electricity produces chemical reactions, with the help of redox reactions. This is a non-spontaneous process.
Galvanic cells have two different electrodes, each immersed in their respective solutions ions. Both electrodes are separated by a semipermeable membrane or a salt bridge.	Electrolytic cells have an electrolytic container, both of the electrodes are in the same container, connected to a DC current source.
Galvanic cells have a negative anode and a positive cathode.	Electrolytic cells have the exact opposite, anode is positive and cathode is negative.
Galvanic cells don't require any external stimulation for the reaction to proceed.	In the case of an electrolytic cell, we have to apply an external potential to force-start the reaction
Galvanic cells have oxidation occurring at anode, which produces electrons, hence the build-up of negative charge. And reduction occurs at cathode, which consumes electrons, thus, a build-up of positive charge.	In an Electrolytic cell, the reduction reaction occurs at its cathode, hence the negative charge. And oxidation reaction occurs at the anode, hence the positive charge.

Note: As a common trick, remember the electrons flow alphabetically, from Anode to Cathode A→C. You can also define it by the type of reaction. They flow from Oxidation to Reduction, again in alphabetical order. O→R.