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Reference Electrodes quiz

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  • What is the main redox couple in the silver-silver chloride electrode (SSCE)?
    The main redox couple is between silver chloride (AgCl) and silver ion (Ag+).
  • How does the concentration of chloride ions affect the potential of the SSCE?
    An increase in chloride ion concentration increases the cell potential of the SSCE.
  • What is the standard potential of the SSCE in saturated chloride conditions?
    The standard potential is 0.197 volts in saturated chloride conditions.
  • What happens to the SSCE potential when the chloride ion activity approaches unity?
    The cell potential under non-standard conditions equals the standard cell potential.
  • What is the main function of a reference electrode in an electrochemical cell?
    A reference electrode provides a stable and known potential against which other electrode potentials can be measured.
  • What is the main redox reaction in the calomel reference electrode (SCE)?
    The main redox reaction is between mercury(I) chloride (Hg2Cl2) and mercury (Hg).
  • How does increasing the concentration of KCl affect the SCE potential?
    Increasing KCl concentration decreases the SCE potential.
  • What is the standard potential of the SCE when chloride activity approaches unity?
    The standard potential is 0.268 volts when chloride activity is unity.
  • How does temperature affect the potential of the SCE?
    Increasing temperature decreases the potential of the SCE.
  • Why are liquids and solids not included in the equilibrium expression for the SCE?
    Liquids and solids are not included because their activities are considered constant and do not affect the equilibrium.
  • What is the typical construction of the SSCE?
    It consists of a silver wire, potassium chloride solution, silver chloride paste, and a porous opening.
  • What is the abbreviation for the calomel reference electrode?
    The abbreviation is SCE.
  • Why is the SCE considered easier to use than the standard hydrogen electrode?
    The SCE is easier to use due to simpler setup, preparation, and lower cost.
  • What is the effect of KCl solubility on the SCE potential?
    Higher KCl solubility increases chloride ion concentration, which lowers the SCE potential.
  • What is the cell notation for the SCE?
    The cell notation is Hg(l) | Hg2Cl2(s), KCl(sat’d) || (other half-cell).