The reference electrode potential of Hg/HgSO4 is +0.68 V with respect to the Standard Hydrogen Electrode (SHE).
This value is specific for the condition where the electrode is immersed in a 0.5 M H2SO4 solution.
The Hg/HgSO4 electrode is particularly useful in situations where the presence of chloride ions is not desirable.
This makes it a suitable alternative to other reference electrodes that involve chloride, such as the silver-silver chloride electrode.
Key Points Explained:
1. Definition of Reference Electrode Potential
The reference electrode potential is the voltage difference between a given electrode and the Standard Hydrogen Electrode (SHE), which is arbitrarily set at 0.000 V.
This potential is crucial for standardizing measurements in electrochemical experiments.
2. Hg/HgSO4 Electrode Composition and Reaction
The Hg/HgSO4 electrode consists of mercury in contact with mercurous sulfate (Hg2SO4) in a 0.5 M sulfuric acid (H2SO4) solution.
The relevant half-cell reaction involves the reduction of mercurous sulfate to mercury: [ \text{Hg}_2\text{SO}_4 + 2e^- \rightarrow 2\text{Hg} + \text{SO}_4^{2-} ]
3. Potential Value and Conditions
The potential of the Hg/HgSO4 electrode is +0.68 V versus SHE, specifically under the condition of being in a 0.5 M H2SO4 solution.
This value is stable and well-defined, making it a reliable reference in electrochemical studies.
4. Applications of Hg/HgSO4 Electrode
This electrode is particularly useful in environments where chloride ions are not desired, such as in certain non-aqueous and specific aqueous electrochemical studies.
It provides a stable reference potential, which is essential for accurate measurements in various experimental setups.
5. Comparison with Other Reference Electrodes
Unlike electrodes that involve chloride ions (e.g., silver-silver chloride), the Hg/HgSO4 electrode offers an alternative that avoids chloride contamination.
This can be beneficial in specific experimental conditions.
6. Practical Considerations
When using the Hg/HgSO4 electrode, it is important to ensure that the conditions (such as the concentration of H2SO4) are maintained as specified to maintain the accuracy of the reference potential.
Proper handling and storage of the electrode are also crucial to prevent contamination and degradation of the electrode's performance.
By understanding these key points, a lab equipment purchaser can make informed decisions about when and how to use the Hg/HgSO4 reference electrode.
This ensures accurate and reliable electrochemical measurements in their experiments.
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