Redox potential
Redox Potential
Redox potential (pronunciation: /ˈriːdɒks pəˈtenʃəl/), also known as oxidation/reduction potential, ORP, pE, ε, or Eh measures the tendency of a chemical species to acquire electrons and thereby be reduced. The term is derived from two words, 'reduction' and 'oxidation'.
Etymology
The term 'redox' is a portmanteau of the words 'reduction' and 'oxidation'. The concept of redox potential was first introduced in the field of electrochemistry.
Definition
Redox potential is defined as the measure of the tendency of a chemical species to acquire electrons and thereby be reduced. It is measured in volts (V), or millivolts (mV). Each species has its own intrinsic redox potential; for example, the more positive the potential, the greater the species' affinity for electrons and tendency to be reduced.
Related Terms
- Reduction: A chemical reaction that involves the gaining of electrons by a molecule, atom or ion.
- Oxidation: A chemical reaction that involves the loss of electrons by a molecule, atom or ion.
- Electrochemistry: The branch of chemistry that deals with the relationships between electricity and chemical reactions.
- Electron: A subatomic particle that carries a negative electric charge.
- Volt: The SI unit of electric potential and electromotive force.
Applications
Redox potential is used in a variety of scientific fields, including chemistry, biology, and environmental science. It is particularly important in the field of soil science, where it is used to predict the availability of nutrients in the soil and the presence of certain chemical compounds.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Redox potential
- Wikipedia's article - Redox potential
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