Some Electrochemistry Questions

[nerd]

I have a few questions re. galvanic cells:

1. Are there any metals you could NOT set up to test a half cell with the metal acting as an electrode in the solution with the conjugate oxidant?
2. Why does a reaction occur when an electrolyte is present in the solution?
3. What are two functions of the electrodes in the galvanic cell? (I can only think of one!)

Thanks.

[Mao]

1. Potassium, Sodium, Lithium, etc. Anything that reacts with water (i.e. below the water equation)

2. Salt-bridge, balances the charge difference (assuming that's the question)

3. Conduct electric-current, can be a reactant.

[nerd]

Thanks Mao. Also - are galvanic cells energy storage devices? Explain.