The discussion revolves around calculating the concentration ratio using electrode potentials and the Nernst equation. Participants clarify that the standard electrode potentials are not applicable, and the importance of knowing the pressure of gaseous hydrogen is emphasized, typically assumed to be 1 atm. There is a consensus that at equilibrium, both cells have the same potential, but this does not mean the individual half-cell potentials are zero. The conversation highlights a common misunderstanding in calculating cell potentials, suggesting that instead of reversing signs, one should simply subtract the half-cell potentials. The key takeaway is that the method of calculating potentials does not depend on whether the reactions are expressed as reductions or oxidations.
