Converting Potentials between Different Reference Electrodes

electrode potential (V)

-0.77

redox couple

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/Fe(s)

Many different reference electrodes can be used in electrochemical experiments. We consider the following four: standard hydrogen electrode (SHE), Ag/AgCl reference electrode, saturated calomel electrode (SCE), and saturated sulfate electrode (SSE). This Demonstration converts the electrode potential between different reference electrodes. The standard electrode potentials of some common redox couples are also provided. Slide the electrode potential (shown as a green vertical line) to convert it to the desired reference electrode or to compare this electrode potential to the standard electrode potential of the chosen redox couple (presented as a black point on the potential axis).