Voltimetry

Voltimetry is a class of electrochemical techniques where the potential of an electrode is systematically varied over time, and the resulting current is measured. The applied potential is the independent variable, and the measured current is the dependent variable. These methods are used to study the kinetics and thermodynamics of electrochemical reactions, determine the concentration of electroactive species, and characterize electrode surfaces.

The shape of the voltammogram, a plot of current versus applied potential, provides crucial information. Different voltagram shapes can indicate reversible or irreversible electron transfer processes, adsorption or desorption phenomena, and the presence of multiple electroactive species. Common voltammetric techniques include cyclic voltammetry, linear sweep voltammetry, and differential pulse voltammetry, each offering unique advantages for specific analytical or research applications.

Cyclic voltammetry involves scanning the potential in one direction and then reversing it, providing information about both forward and reverse reactions. Linear sweep voltammetry scans the potential linearly in one direction only. Differential pulse voltammetry applies small potential pulses on top of a slowly increasing staircase potential, enhancing sensitivity by minimizing background current. Voltimetry finds applications in analytical chemistry, environmental monitoring, corrosion studies, and the development of electrochemical sensors and devices.