redox potential

views updated May 08 2018

redox potential (EH) A scale of values, measured as electric potential in volts, indicating the ability of a substance or solution to cause reduction or oxidation reactions under non-standard conditions. The term is sometimes used interchangeably with the term oxidation potential, but in either case the symbol Eθ would refer to standard conditions, while EH signifies non-standard conditions, usually processes in natural systems such as sea water or soils. The higher the value of EH, the more oxidizing the conditions. The redox potential is important in weathering in terms of oxidation and reduction; if the environment will accept electrons it can precipitate Fe(OH)3, if not the Fe2+ ions will remain in solution. Values in natural environments are closely linked, and vary, with changes in pH.

redox potential

views updated May 09 2018

redox potential A scale that indicates the reduction (addition of electrons) and oxidation (removal of electrons) for a given material. The position on the scale is expressed as an electric potential in millivolts, normally in the range 0–1300 or 0–1400 mV. The pH of the sample must be known since this can alter the reading.

redox potential

views updated May 21 2018

redox potential A scale that indicates the reduction (addition of electrons) and oxidation (removal of electrons) for a given material. The position on the scale is expressed as an electric potential in millivolts, normally in the range 0–1300 or 0–1400 mV. The pH of the sample must be known since this can alter the reading.

redox potential

views updated Jun 27 2018

redox potential A scale that indicates the reduction (addition of electrons) and oxidation (removal of electrons) for a given material. The position on the scale is expressed as an electric potential in millivolts, normally in the range 0–1300 or 0–1400 mV. The pH of the sample must be known since this can alter the reading.