Study Tips
 

Study Tip: A Level Electrochemistry

Study Tip: A Level Electrochemistry

04/11/25

 

Top Tips for A-Level Electrochemistry: Understanding Half Cells the Smart Way

 Electrochemistry can be one of those A-Level Chemistry topics that students either love or dread — but it doesn’t have to be confusing. Here are two top tips from The Chemistry Coach A.I. to help you master how half-cells combine and how to remember which side does what.

 

 

Tip 1: Always Put the Most Negative Half Cell on Top

Whenever you’re combining two half-cells, start by writing out the two half-equations — but put the most negative one on top.

 

For example:

Aluminium (Al) has a more negative electrode potential than copper (Cu).

So, aluminium goes on top, and copper goes below.

 

Once they’re arranged, you can apply the anti-clockwise rule to predict what happens when these two half-cells are connected:

 

Simple rule:

???? Most negative on top, anti-clockwise gives oxidation → reduction.

 

 

Tip 2: Remember the “L.O.A.N.” Convention

When it comes to drawing or interpreting electrochemical cells, conventions matter — and there’s one you can always rely on.

 

On the left-hand side, you’ll find the half-cell where oxidation happens.

This side is known as the anode, and it’s the negative electrode.

 

To make it stick, remember the word L.O.A.N.

 

Left — Oxidation — Anode — Negative

 

So, whenever you see an electrochemical cell diagram, you can confidently identify what’s happening just by checking the left-hand side.

 

 

In Short

 

Follow these steps, and electrochemistry becomes far less daunting — especially when you practise with real exam questions.

 

 

Want more step-by-step Chemistry help?

Chat with Chemistry Coach A.I. — your 24/7 personal tutor that knows the AQA, OCR A and WJEC specifications down to the last letter. It can guide you through electrochemistry, equations, and every tricky concept the same way an expert tutor would.