Potentiometry in Electrochemistry Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of potentiometry in electrochemistry?

  • To determine the concentration of a gas in a solution
  • To analyze the voltage drop across a resistor
  • To measure the potential of electrochemical cells without significant current flow (correct)
  • To quantify the rate of a chemical reaction

In a metal/ion half-cell in potentiometry, what happens to the metal ions when they reach the metal rod?

  • They precipitate as solid metal
  • They ionize and enter the solution
  • They gain electrons and deposit as reduced form (correct)
  • They cause a reduction in the cell potential

What influences the change in potential for an analyte in potentiometry?

  • Temperature and humidity conditions
  • The concentration of the electroactive species (correct)
  • The color of the solution
  • The size and shape of the electrode

Which component is essential for maintaining the stability of the potential measurement in potentiometry?

<p>Salt bridge (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which equation is typically used to describe the relationship between potential and concentration in potentiometry?

<p>Nernst equation (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of species is specifically analyzed using potentiometry?

<p>Electroactive species (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does the reference electrode play in potentiometry?

<p>It provides a stable reference potential (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When the concentration of metal ions increases in a galvanic cell, what is the expected effect on the potential?

<p>The potential will increase (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the salt bridge in an electrochemical cell?

<p>To allow charge transfer without mixing solutions (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What factor primarily causes the formation of a junction potential in a salt bridge?

<p>Different migration rates of anions and cations (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a practical way to minimize junction potential in an electrochemical cell?

<p>Select a salt bridge with cations and anions of similar mobility (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to Ohm's law, what does E represent in the equation E = RAC I?

<p>The electromotive force of the cell (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What might limit the accuracy of direct potentiometric measurements in an electrochemical cell?

<p>The junction potential at the salt bridge (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following salts would be most appropriate for constructing a salt bridge in electrochemical applications?

<p>KCl (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the typical magnitude of a potential developed at the junction of a salt bridge?

<p>Up to a few millivolts (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What physical structure can a salt bridge take?

<p>A bent tube or inverted U-shaped tube (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What function does the reference electrode serve in a potentiometric measurement?

<p>It provides a known constant potential for comparison. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is a potentiometer used in measuring the e.m.f. of a galvanic cell?

<p>To ensure measurements are taken under zero current conditions. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is e.m.f. in the context of a galvanic cell?

<p>The difference in potential between the two electrodes. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which component connects the two electrode solutions and completes the circuit in a potentiometric setup?

<p>The salt bridge. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the change in e.m.f. of the cell indicate during potentiometric measurement?

<p>Changes in the indicator electrode's potential related to ion concentration. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what scenario is a potentiometer particularly useful?

<p>When measuring e.m.f. without causing polarization. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does a voltage divider function within a potentiometric setup?

<p>It opposes the galvanic cell's potential. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about the indicator electrode is correct?

<p>Its potential can be directly linked to the ion concentration. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of using an inert electrode in redox systems?

<p>To facilitate electron transfer without participating in the reaction. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the Nernst equation, what effect does increasing the concentration of the reduced species have on the electrode potential (E25°C)?

<p>It increases the electrode potential. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the Nernst equation, when the ionic concentration is 1 molar, what is the relationship of E25°C to E0?

<p>E25°C is equal to E0. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

For the ion/ion half-cell of Fe3+/Fe2+, what does the term 'oxidized form' refer to?

<p>Fe3+. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the variable 'n' represent in the Nernst equation?

<p>The number of electrons transferred in the half-reaction. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a solution with a high concentration of a reduced species, how would you expect the Nernst equation to affect the system?

<p>It would favor the reduction reaction. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the equation E25°𝐶 = E0 + 0.059 log [oxidized form]/[reduced form], what can be inferred when the ratio of the concentrations of the oxidized and reduced forms is less than 1?

<p>The electrode potential (E25°C) will be negative. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is indicated when the standard electrode potential E0 is positive?

<p>The reaction is spontaneous in the forward direction. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a requirement for a reference electrode?

<p>It must have a constant potential. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following advantages does the Normal Hydrogen Electrode (NHE) have?

<p>Its potential is considered to be zero. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does a salt bridge play in electrochemical cells?

<p>It allows migration of ions towards the electrodes. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a disadvantage of the Normal Hydrogen Electrode?

<p>It is difficult to maintain hydrogen gas at one atmosphere. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a primary reference electrode?

<p>Normal Hydrogen Electrode (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the half-cell presentation formula for the Normal Hydrogen Electrode (NHE)?

<p>Pt(s)|H2(g,1atm)|H+(aq),1M || (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What interferes with the catalytic activity of platinum in the Normal Hydrogen Electrode?

<p>Catalytic poisons like S2- (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which equation describes the electrode reaction of the Calomel electrode?

<p>Hg2Cl2 + 2e- ⇌ 2Cl- + 2Hg (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the silver ion in the reaction involving silver chloride?

<p>It is reduced to silver metal. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the Nernst equation relate to in the context of the silver-silver chloride electrode?

<p>It relates the potential to the concentration of ions in solution. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between the solubility product Ksp of AgCl and the concentrations of silver and chloride ions?

<p>Ksp of AgCl equals the product of the concentrations of silver and chloride ions. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the concentration of chloride ions influence the electrode potential in a silver-silver chloride electrode?

<p>The electrode potential is directly proportional to the logarithm of the chloride ion concentration. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the electrode potential E25°C (Ag/Ag+) if the concentration of Ag+ decreases?

<p>It decreases. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

At what standard condition does the E°(Ag/Ag+) potential equal 0.059 V?

<p>In a saturated solution of KCl. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following equations correctly represents the dissociation of sparingly soluble AgCl?

<p>AgCl ⇌ Ag+ + Cl- (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the terms in the Nernst equation in relation to Ksp?

<p>It provides a way to express concentrations in terms of each other. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Potentiometry

A method of analysis where the concentration of a specific ion or substance is determined by measuring the potential difference generated when a special electrode is placed in its solution.

Potentiometer

An instrument used in potentiometry to measure the potential difference between two electrodes in a circuit.

Salt Bridge

A device used to connect two solutions of different compositions, allowing for the flow of ions while maintaining electrical neutrality.

Junction Potential

The potential difference that arises at the interface between two solutions with different ionic compositions.

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Reference Electrodes

Electrodes that maintain a constant and predictable potential, serving as a reference point for measuring the potential of the other electrode.

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Solution Pressure

The tendency of a metal to lose electrons and go into solution as ions, creating a positive charge.

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Ionic Pressure

The tendency of ions in solution to gain electrons and deposit onto the metal surface.

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Nernst Equation

The relationship between the potential difference of an electrochemical cell and the concentrations of the reactants involved, governed by the Nernst Equation.

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Inert Electrode

A type of electrode used in electrochemical reactions that doesn't participate in the reaction, only facilitating electron transfer.

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Standard Electrode Potential (E°)

The potential of a half-cell under standard conditions, where all concentrations are 1M and the temperature is 25 °C.

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Redox Systems (Ion/Ion Half-Cell)

Oxidation and reduction reactions where the reactants are ions in solution, often facilitated by an inert electrode.

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Measuring Electrode Potential

The potential of a single electrode cannot be measured directly. It must be compared to a reference electrode with a known and stable potential, creating an electrochemical cell.

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Electromotive Force (EMF)

The force that drives the flow of electrons in an electrochemical cell, measured in volts.

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Indicator Electrode

The electrode that determines the concentration of the ion being measured.

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Voltage Divider

A device that provides a variable potential to oppose the cell's EMF, allowing for precise EMF measurement without drawing current.

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Relationship Between EMF and Indicator Electrode

The change in EMF of an electrochemical cell is directly related to the change in the indicator electrode's potential, which is influenced by the ion concentration in the solution.

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What is the function of a salt bridge?

A device that connects two half-cells in an electrochemical cell, allowing for the flow of ions while preventing the solutions from mixing.

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What is junction potential?

The potential difference that arises at the interface between two solutions with different ionic compositions. It's caused by the difference in migration rates of ions.

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Why does junction potential occur?

A potential generated due to the unequal distribution of charges at the boundaries of a salt bridge. This is caused by differences in the migration rates of anions and cations.

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What is a junction potential in a salt bridge?

A potential developed at the boundaries of the junction between a salt bridge and the half-cell solutions. It's caused by the difference in ion migration rates.

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What is a voltage divider used for in a galvanic cell?

A special type of voltage divider that allows for accurate measurement of a galvanic cell's potential difference. It adjusts the potential across the cell until zero current is detected, signifying potential equality.

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How can you minimize junction potential?

It's a method used to minimize junction potential by selecting a salt bridge electrolyte with similar ion mobilities. This ensures equal charge distribution and reduces the potential difference.

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What is the role of a voltage divider in potentiometry?

A device that supplies a variable potential to a galvanic cell until a zero current reading is observed, indicating the potential difference between the cell and the voltage divider is equal.

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What is solution pressure?

The tendency of a metal to lose electrons and form ions in solution, creating a positive charge.

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What does the Nernst equation describe?

The Nernst equation links the potential of an electrochemical cell to the concentrations of the reactants involved.

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Describe the silver-silver chloride electrode.

The silver-silver chloride electrode is a reference electrode commonly used in electrochemistry, where the potential is dependant on the chloride ion concentration.

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What is the solubility product of AgCl?

The solubility product of silver chloride (AgCl) is expressed as the product of the concentrations of silver ions (Ag+) and chloride ions (Cl-), representing the maximum amount of dissolved AgCl.

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How does the chloride ion concentration affect the potential of the silver-silver chloride electrode?

The potential of the silver-silver chloride electrode is influenced by the chloride ion concentration, with higher chloride concentrations resulting in lower electrode potentials.

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What determines the electrode potential of a silver-silver chloride electrode?

The electrode potential of the silver-silver chloride electrode is determined by the chloride ion concentration in the solution it's in.

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What are the typical electrode potentials for silver-silver chloride electrodes?

The electrode potential is 0.197 V for saturated KCl and 0.205 V for 3.5M KCl.

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What does the electrode potential indicate?

The electrode potential is a measure of the tendency for a chemical reaction to occur at an electrode. A positive potential indicates a tendency for the reaction to occur.

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Why is the silver-silver chloride electrode important in electrochemistry?

The potential of the silver-silver chloride electrode is a standard reference point used for measuring the potential of other electrodes in electrochemical cells.

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High Salt Concentration in Bridge

When a high concentration of a salt is used in the bridge to minimize the impact of different ion migration rates. This results in a more stable and predictable potential measurement.

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Normal Hydrogen Electrode (NHE)

A primary reference electrode based on the reaction between hydrogen ions and hydrogen gas. Its potential is defined as 0 volts at standard conditions.

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Calomel Electrode

A type of reference electrode that uses a combination of mercury, mercurous chloride (calomel), and a specific electrolyte solution to maintain a stable potential.

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Silver/Silver Chloride Electrode

This electrode utilizes silver, silver chloride, and a saturated potassium chloride solution to maintain a constant and predictable reference potential.

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Reference Electrodes (NHE and others)

These electrodes are used for measuring potential differences in electrochemical cells. Their potential is constant and well-defined, acting as a reference point for measuring the potential of other electrodes.

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Study Notes

Electrochemistry: Potentiometry

  • Potentiometry is a method of analysis.
  • The concentration of an ion or substance is determined by measuring the potential developed when a sensitive electrode is immersed in a solution of the species being analyzed.
  • The process measures potential in electrochemical cells without significantly drawing current.

Overview of Today's Lecture

  • Introduction to potentiometry
  • Potentiometer instrument
  • Salt bridge and junction potential
  • Reference electrodes

Potentiometry

  • Potentiometry is a method of analysis.
  • It determines the concentration of an ion or substance by measuring the potential developed when a sensitive electrode is immersed in the solution.
  • Electrochemical cells are used without drawing significant current.

Basics of Potentiometry

  • Analyte is an electroactive species within a galvanic cell.
  • The analyte's concentration affects the potential, following the Nernst equation.
  • Case 1: Metals—metal/ion half-cell.
    • The metal (M°) is immersed in a solution of its ions (Mn+).
    • Solution pressure (oxidation): The tendency of M° to go into solution.
    • Ionic pressure (reduction): The tendency for Mn+ ions to deposit on the M° rod.
  • Case 2: Non-metals—non-metal/ion half-cell.
    • An inert electrode (e.g., platinum) is needed for electron transfer.
    • The Nernst equation for non-metals: E25°C = E0 + (0.059/n) * log[Nn-]
  • Case 3: Redox systems—ion/ion half-cell.
    • An inert platinum electrode is used.
    • Example: Fe3+/Fe2+ E25°C = E0 + (0.059/n) * (log[oxidized form]/[reduced form])

Some Notes on the Electrode Potential

  • If the ionic concentration is 1 molar, the potential (E25°C) equals the standard electrode potential (E0).
  • The potential's sign is similar to the electrode's charge.
  • The potential of a single electrode cannot be directly measured but is measured against a reference electrode with a fixed potential within an electrochemical cell.

Instrument: Components for Potentiometric Measurement

  • Indicator electrode: The electrode used to determine ion concentration.
  • Reference electrode: Its potential is constant and known, used in conjunction with the indicator electrode to measure EMF.
  • EMF (=electromotive force): E = Ecathode - Eanode
  • Potentiometer: The device that measures the EMF developed in the electrochemical cell.
  • Salt bridge: Connects the two electrode solutions and completes the circuit.

Potentiometer: Measurement of EMF

  • Potentiometer measures EMF under zero current (no current withdrawal or imposition) to prevent polarization or chemical changes within the cell.
  • A galvanic cell, a voltage divider, and a galvanometer are its key components.
  • The variable potential from the divider is changed until zero current (as detected by the galvanometer) is reached. The potential at this point matches that of the galvanic cell.

Salt Bridge

  • A liquid junction between two half-cells.
  • Allows charge transfer without mixing the solutions.
  • Usually a bent or U-shaped tube filled with agar gel saturated with a salt (e.g., KCl, KNO3).
  • Ions in the salt bridge should not pass into the half-cells to avoid potential interference with the intended measurements.

Salt Bridge: Junction Potential

  • A potential developed at the boundaries (interfaces with anode/cathode solutions) of the junction.
  • Occurs from differences in anion and cation migration rates within the salt bridge solution.
  • Unbalanced charge distribution at the boundaries generates a small potential.
  • Junction potential puts a fundamental limitation on accuracy in direct potentiometric measurements.

To reduce liquid junction potential

  • Choose an electrolyte for the salt bridge where its cations and anions have similar mobilities.
  • Employ high concentrations of the salt in the bridge solution to reduce the effect of differences in ion migration rates between the salt bridge and the electrode solutions.

Reference Electrodes

  • Requirements for reference electrodes:
    • Constant potential
    • Known and definite potential
  • Types:
    • Primary: Normal Hydrogen Electrode (NHE)
    • Secondary: Calomel, Silver/Silver Chloride

Normal Hydrogen Electrode (NHE)

  • Electrode reaction: 2H+ + 2e- = H2
  • Half-cell presentation: Pt(s) | H2(g, 1 atm) | H+(aq, 1M) ||
  • Design: Diagram of the NHE setup details is essential for demonstration.
  • Nernst equation: E25°C = E0 + (0.059/2) * log[H+]2
  • Potential in standard conditions: E25°C = 0V

Normal Hydrogen Electrode (NHE): Disadvantages

  • Difficult to use (practical limitations)
  • Vulnerable to catalytic poisons
  • Cannot maintain constant H2 pressure
  • Needs replating

Calomel Electrode

  • Electrode reaction: Hg2Cl2 + 2e- = 2Hg + 2Cl-
  • Half-cell presentation: Hg | Hg2Cl2, KCl(sat/1N/0.1N)

Silver/Silver Chloride Electrode

  • Electrode reaction: AgCl + e- = Ag + Cl-
  • Half cell presentation: Ag | AgCl, KCl(sat/1N/0.1N)
  • Nernst equation: E= E0 + (0.059/1) * log(Ksp/[Cl-])

Thank you

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