How is the current density solved for in an electrolyzer unit?

AI Thread Summary
Hydrogen production rates are commonly expressed in terms of current density, which is calculated by dividing the current by a specific area. In the context of an alkaline electrolyzer powered by a 9V battery, the relevant area for this calculation is typically the electrode surface area. This area is crucial as it directly influences the efficiency of the electrolysis process. The discussion also highlights the importance of understanding the electrolysis setup, including the flow of charge through the electrolyte solution between electrodes. Overall, the electrode surface area is the key factor for determining current density in hydrogen production through electrolysis.
Shan43
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Hydrogen production rate is typically measured in current density, but what is the area in which the current is divided by to find such a value?
 
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Shan43 said:
Hydrogen production rate is typically measured in current density, but what is the area in which the current is divided by to find such a value?
Maybe the cross-sectional area of the electrolyte in the reaction volume of the electrolysis apparatus? Can you post some links to what you have been reading about electrolysis to help us understand your question better?

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electrolysis

1641426785838.png
 
Electrode surface.
 
Tafel plot?
 
berkeman said:
Maybe the cross-sectional area of the electrolyte in the reaction volume of the electrolysis apparatus? Can you post some links to what you have been reading about electrolysis to help us understand your question better?

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electrolysis

View attachment 295166
Well this wasn't based off of much reading per say, but for context I'm talking about an alkaline electrolyzer where a battery (9V battery that alligator clips can attatch to) serves as a power source and wires connect to an ammeter which would then connect to an electrode. The charge will flow through the electrolyte solution to other electrode which connects through a wire back to the battery on the negative end. What would the area the current should be divided by in this context?

Sorry for the late reply btw
 
Shan43 said:
The charge will flow through the electrolyte solution to other electrode which connects through a wire back to the battery on the negative end. What would the area the current should be divided by in this context?
It seems like Borek's reply applies Occam's Razor:
Borek said:
Electrode surface.
 
berkeman said:
It seems like Borek's reply applies Occam's Razor:
Ok, thank you guys very much!
 
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