
Silver chloride electrode in Potentiometry analysis
A silver chloride electrode (Ag/AgCl electrode) is commonly used as a reference electrode in potentiometric analysis. Potentiometry is a technique that measures the potential difference between two electrodes in an electrochemical cell, and the Ag/AgCl electrode serves as a stable reference electrode with a known potential.
The Ag/AgCl electrode consists of a silver wire coated with silver chloride, which is immersed in a solution containing a known concentration of potassium chloride (KCl). The KCl solution helps maintain a stable potential at the surface of the electrode, preventing changes in potential due to changes in the electrolyte concentration.
During potentiometric analysis, the Ag/AgCl electrode is used as a reference electrode, while a working electrode is used to measure the potential difference between the two electrodes. The working electrode can be an ion-selective electrode or a non-selective electrode, depending on the specific application.
One of the advantages of using the Ag/AgCl electrode as a reference electrode is its stable and reproducible potential. This allows for accurate and precise measurements in potentiometric analysis. However, the electrode can be sensitive to light and can produce a potential drift if it is not properly maintained. It is important to store and handle the electrode correctly to ensure accurate and consistent results.
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