Chapter 20, Problem 75A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

calculate the potential of hydrogen electrode if copper were the standard electrode.

Concept introduction:

In normal convention the reduction potential of the standard hydrogen electrode is considered zero and the other reduction potentials are considered relative to it.

Answer to Problem 75A

If copper electrode were the standard, the potential of hydrogen electrode would be $-0.34V$. The other standard reduction potentials would be reduced by $0.34V$ $0.34V$.

Explanation of Solution

When hydrogen electrode is considered standard its reduction potential is zero and the reduction potential of Cu⁺|Cu electrode is $0.34V$. If the copper electrode is considered standard its potential will become zero and subsequently all other potentials will decrease by $0.34V$.

Conclusion

If copper electrode becomes standard all other potentials will decrease by $0.34V$.