Reizwirkungen

The Galvani Electrode Potential

“…X~ is, of course, the surface potential of this liquid phase against vacuum. X is essentially independent of the electrolyte (8), if no electrocapillary active substances are present, and if the solutions are not too concentrated. The surface potential results primarily from the orientation of water multipoles, mainly dipoles, in the surface.…”

“…In fact, it is possible to calculate theoretically such electric potential differences on the basis of an exact knowledge of the interaction energies between the particles in the bulk of the phases or on the basis of a precise picture of the free surfaces and especially the surface dipoles (surface double layer) of the phases against vacuum. The definition of the Galvani-potential given by Lange (7)(8)(9) has made it possible to discuss the subject of electrical potential differences between dissimilar media without ambiguity. The terms "absolute," "single," or "true" electrode potentials should not be used in future discussions.…”

“…which is the negative work function of the ion i. The difference between the Volta potentials of two phases may be determined experimentally (8,9,11), but the Galvani potential difference cannot be measured by any means.…”