What is the standard reduction potential of a standard hydrogen electrode (SHE)?

• A. 2.87 V
• B. 0 V
• C. 1 V
• D. -0.76 V

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the standard hydrogen electrode (SHE) is the reference electrode used in electrochemistry to measure electrode potentials.
2. Recall that by definition, the standard reduction potential of the SHE is assigned a value of 0 volts under standard conditions (1 M H\_2 ion concentration, 1 atm H\_2 gas, 25°C).
3. Recognize that this zero value serves as a baseline against which all other electrode potentials are measured.
4. Note that the SHE involves the half-reaction: \(\mathrm{2H^{+} (aq) + 2e^{-} \rightarrow H_2 (g)}\).
5. Therefore, the standard reduction potential of the SHE is 0 V by definition, not any other value such as 2.87 V, 1 V, or -0.76 V.