Redox potential
Redox potential (Eh), also known as reduction potential, is the tendency of a molecule to be reduced by acquiring electrons. It is measured in volts (V) or millivolts (mV). The oxidation potential is the inverse of the reduction potential. The more positive the reduction potential, the greater the tendency to be reduced. Conversely, the more negative the reduction potential, the greater the tendency to be oxidized.
The standard reduction potential (E0) is measured against a reference electrode under specific conditions:
- 25
°C degrees celsius - 1 M concentration for each ion participating in the reaction
- Partial pressure of 1
atm atmosphere for each gas that is part of the reaction - Metals in their pure states