Electrochemistry & Redox
4 terms
Overpotential
Electrochemistry & Redox
V
The extra voltage beyond the theoretical value that must be applied before an electrode reaction proceeds at a useful rate.
η = E_applied − E_equilibrium
Oxidation
Electrochemistry & Redox
Dimensionless
The loss of electrons by a species, accompanied by an increase in its oxidation number.
M → Mⁿ⁺ + n e⁻
Oxidation Number
Electrochemistry & Redox
Dimensionless
The hypothetical charge an atom would carry if all its bonds were treated as fully ionic.
Σ oxidation numbers = overall charge
Oxidising Agent
Electrochemistry & Redox
V
A species that accepts electrons from another substance and is itself reduced in the process.