Chemistry / Unit 11 Chem 2159 short lesson, about 20 seconds
Salt Bridge Maintains Circuit and Neutrality
Captions available
The idea
A salt bridge completes a galvanic cell's circuit by allowing ion flow between half-cells, keeping each compartment neutral as electrons flow through the wire.
In practice
Without a salt bridge, charge builds up in each half-cell and current stops almost immediately; with one, the cell runs steadily.
Where people slip
The salt bridge carries ions, not electrons — electron flow stays confined to the wire.
Your place on the trail
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Unlocks
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