Electrode Potentials and Electrochemical Cells

Oxidation

Loss of electrons (Increase in oxidation state)

Reduction

Gain of electrons (Decrease in oxidation state)

Oxidising agent

Species that accepts electrons

Reducing agent

Species that donates electrons

What are the standard conditions:

• Pressure

• Temperature

• Concentration

• 100kPa

• 298K

• 1 mol dm^-3

Where does oxidation occur?

Negative electrode

Where does reduction occur?

Positive electrode

What does the standard electrode potential of a half cell indicate?

Its tendency to lose electrons/undergo oxidation (more negative electrode potential) or gain electrons/undergo reduction (more positive electrode potential)

Standard electrode potential

The electromotive force of a half-cell compared with a standard hydrogen half cell

Explain the function of the salt bridge

• The ions in the ionic substance in the salt bridge move through the salt bridge

• To complete the circuit

Explain how the salt bridge provides n electrical connection between the two solutions

• Has mobile ions

• Balance the charge

• Complete the circuit