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In our last post, we looked at the overview of electrode potentials, where we discussed metal ions/metal systems or half-cells, standard electrode potential and electrochemical cells in depth. Here, we will focus on the calculations involving electrode potentials, which include calculations of  the electromotive force (e.m.f) of electrochemical cells ,  the relationship between e .m.f & free energy and the relationship between e .m.f & equilibrium constant. Half-Cell Reactions                      Std Reduction Potential , E° (V) K+(aq) + e- <----> K(s)                              -2.92 Ca2+(aq) + 2e- <----> Ca(s)                     -2.87 Na+(aq) + e- <----> Na(s)                         -2.71 Mg2+(aq) + 2e- <----> Mg(s)                   -2.37 Al3+(aq) + 3e- <----> Al(s)                       -1.66 Zn2+(aq) + 2e- <----> Zn(s)                     -0.76 Fe2+(aq) + 2e- <----> Fe(s)                      -0.44 Sn2+(aq) + 2e- <

Metal Ions / Metal Systems If a metal plate or rod is placed in a solution of its own salt, two processes - oxidation and reduction, take place simultaneously. The atoms from the metal's surface, lose electrons and go into solution as ions, as the electrons lost are left on the surface of the metal plate, thereby making it electrons surplus and negatively charged.                    M(s) ----> M+(aq) + e- Conversely, the metallic ions in the salt solution gain electrons from the surface of the metal plate and get deposited as metallic atoms. The electrons gained from the surface of the electrode renders it electron deficient and positively charged.                     M+(aq) + e- ----> M(s) Depending on the nature of the metal, a particular process will predominate. Hence, a potential difference, known as the electrode potential for the metal ions/metal system [M+(aq)/M(s)] is established between the electrode and the electrolyte. For instance, if a zinc electrode is

By Charles Offiong These are two words, whose meanings are usually literally misconstrued. In as much as they sound similar, there is a need to put them in the right perspective, so as to erase any form of ambiguity and avoid the trap of mediocrity. While listening to a programme on a primetime radio station, an analogy was made between two professions, which perfectly describe these words. Using this analogy and other examples, I will endeavour to shed some light on the similarities, differences, and importance of sight and vision. What you will be reading are as seen from my own point of view, and you may not agree with them. However, your contention does not change the fact that there is a need to clearly define or separate these two terms. According to the dictionary, sight is the ability to see or the perception or view of objects by the eyes. It can be said to be something seen or worth seeing, i.e., a spectacle. It also means having a mental view, opinion or judgment about so