Electrochemistry: reference electrode

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the use of a reference electrode in electrochemistry, specifically focusing on the calomel electrode and its application with a copper half-cell. Participants explore the half-reactions involved and the calculation of cell potential.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the reduction half-reaction for copper and questions how to use the calomel electrode with it, specifically asking if the reactions listed are correct.
  • Another participant suggests drawing a potential line to visualize the cell potential, indicating that the cell potential is the distance between the marked potentials of both half cells.
  • Several participants reiterate the need to combine the half-cell reactions to form a complete cell reaction.
  • One participant points out a potential error in the second half-reaction regarding the presence of chloride ions, suggesting it may be a typo.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the correctness of the half-reactions presented, and there is no consensus on the accuracy of the reactions or the presence of chloride ions in the second reaction.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved questions regarding the accuracy of the half-reactions and the implications of any typographical errors in the chemical equations presented.

AdityaDev
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Reduction half reaction : Cu2++2e- -> Cu(s)
I have a doubt in using the reference electrode.
For example if I have the calomel electrode (ESCE=0.24V) how do I use it with the copper half cell? Are these reactions correct?
Cu2++2e- -> Cu(s)
2Hg+2Cl -> Hg2Cl2+2e-
To get Ecell=0.24+ECu|Cu2+
 
Last edited:
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Draw a potential line - just like a horizontal axis of the plot.

Mark potentials of both half cells.

Cell potential is the distance between them.
 
Borek said:
Draw a potential line - just like a horizontal axis of the plot.

Mark potentials of both half cells.

Cell potential is the distance between them.
My question is different. It's about the cell reaction. Not finding the potential from graph.
 
You have already listed both half cell reactions. If you need a full one, just combine them.
 
Borek said:
You have already listed both half cell reactions. If you need a full one, just combine them.
My question : Are those reactions correct?
I'll edit the post.
 
No such thing as Cl in the second reaction, but I guess it is just a typo.
 
Borek said:
No such thing as Cl in the second reaction, but I guess it is just a typo.
Sorry its cl-
 

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