Electrochemistry

Electrochemistry (pronunciation: /ɪˌlɛktrəʊkɛˈmɪstri/) is a branch of chemistry that deals with the interaction between electricity and identifiable chemical substances. Its etymology is derived from the Greek words "electron" meaning amber, from which the word 'electricity' is derived, and "chemistry".

Definition

Electrochemistry is the study of chemical processes that cause electrons to move. This movement of electrons is called electricity, which can be generated by movements of electrons from one element to another in a reaction known as an oxidation-reduction ("redox") reaction.

History

The principles of electrochemistry had been known in a primitive form since the invention of the battery by Alessandro Volta in 1800. The field was further developed by scientists such as Michael Faraday and Svante Arrhenius.

Applications

Electrochemistry has a number of different uses, particularly in industry. The principles of electrochemistry are widely used in different industries like battery technology, electroplating, and electrolysis.

Related Terms

Redox: A type of chemical reaction in which the oxidation states of atoms are changed.
Electrolysis: The passing of a direct electric current through an ionic substance that is either molten or dissolved in a suitable solvent, resulting in chemical reactions at the electrodes and separation of materials.
Electroplating: A process that uses an electric current to reduce dissolved metal cations so that they form a thin coherent metal coating on an electrode.
Battery (electricity): A device consisting of one or more electrochemical cells with external connections for powering electrical devices such as flashlights, mobile phones, and electric cars.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Electrochemistry
Wikipedia's article - Electrochemistry

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Electrochemistry