elektroodipotentsiaal

Elektroodipotentsiaal, also known as electrode potential, is a fundamental concept in electrochemistry. It refers to the electric potential difference that develops between an electrode and the electrolyte solution surrounding it. This potential arises due to the tendency of the electrode material to either gain or lose electrons when in contact with the electrolyte.

The magnitude and sign of the electrode potential are determined by the specific chemical reaction occurring at the electrode-electrolyte interface, which is typically an oxidation or reduction half-reaction. For instance, if an electrode tends to oxidize, it will release electrons into the solution, leading to a positive potential relative to the electrolyte. Conversely, if an electrode tends to reduce, it will accept electrons from the solution, resulting in a negative potential.

Electrode potentials are usually measured relative to a standard reference electrode, most commonly the standard hydrogen electrode (SHE). The SHE is assigned a potential of 0 volts under standard conditions (1 M concentration of ions, 1 atm pressure of gas, and 25°C). By comparing the potential of other electrodes to the SHE, their relative tendencies to undergo oxidation or reduction can be determined. These values are tabulated as standard electrode potentials and are crucial for predicting the direction and feasibility of electrochemical reactions, such as those in batteries and electrolysis. The concept is also vital in understanding corrosion processes and the behavior of electrochemical sensors.