Electrochemical reactions are transfers of electrons between substances. Hence electrochemistry studies the relationship between electricity and this phenomenon, namely a chemical charge. Conductors are necessary for this process to complete. These may be metal or non-metal substances such as graphite, manganese dioxide, and lead sulfide.
Viewing Electrochemical Reactions as Processes
All chemical reactions arise from a shift in the electron structures of atoms. Free electrons can combine with particles of matter in a process we call ‘reduction’. While this matter may also release them in a process we call ‘oxidation’.
Faraday’s Laws quantify the relationship between the free electrons of an electric current, and the particles of the substance in which they cause the reaction. The electrons causing such electrochemical reactions are only available in useful quantities in electronic conductors. These are usually metal although the strength of their conductivity varies.
Electrochemical Cells AKA ‘Batteries’ from This Perspective
Electrochemical calls have two conductive electrodes we call the ‘cathode’ and the ‘anode’. Oxidation occurs at the anode while reduction takes place at the cathode. We can make electrodes from any sufficiently-conductive material. Much battery research focuses on this issue.
Electrolytes, traditionally liquid but moving towards solids provide a separate environment in which ions can move freely between electrodes. Oxidation and reduction occur at their respective poles as electrochemical cells charge and discharge. Electricity flows according to the operating mode when we electrically connect a device between them.
The electric current this releases can energize a light bulb, turn an electric motor, or operate an electronic device. These electrochemical reactions are so fundamental to living we could not imagine ever being without them. Scientists are able to view them and describe them in finest detail. Yet they still can’t explain exactly why they work.
Related
Electrical Conductors We Call Electrodes
Keeping Electrochemistry Simple… For Today At Least
Preview Image: Electrochemical Research
