Cell Notation
A shorthand convention for representing an electrochemical cell using vertical lines for phase boundaries.
Formula / equation
Zn(s) | Zn²⁺(aq) ‖ Cu²⁺(aq) | Cu(s)
Unit
Dimensionless
In depth
The anode is written on the left and the cathode on the right, single vertical lines mark phase boundaries and a double line marks the salt bridge. Concentrations are given in brackets, and an inert electrode is included where the redox couple is entirely in solution.
Examples in the real world
Pt | H₂(g) | H⁺(aq) ‖ Cu²⁺(aq) | Cu(s) for a copper cell measured against the hydrogen electrode.