Merit and demerits of using hydrogen electrodes as reference electrode

1 answer

Merit:

1. High stability: Hydrogen electrodes are known for their high stability and reliability as reference electrodes. They can maintain a constant potential over a wide range of conditions.

2. Wide potential range: Hydrogen electrodes have a wide potential range, making them suitable for a variety of electrochemical experiments and measurements.

3. Low cost: Hydrogen electrodes are relatively inexpensive compared to other types of reference electrodes, making them a cost-effective option for many applications.

4. Easy to prepare: Hydrogen electrodes are relatively easy to prepare and can be quickly set up for use in experiments.

Demerits:

1. Requires maintenance: Hydrogen electrodes require regular maintenance and recalibration to ensure accurate results. This can be time-consuming and may require specialized equipment.

2. Risk of explosion: Hydrogen electrodes involve the use of hydrogen gas, which is highly flammable and can pose a safety risk if not handled properly.

3. Limited compatibility: Hydrogen electrodes may not be suitable for all types of electrochemical experiments or measurements, as they may not provide accurate results in certain conditions.

4. Environmental impact: The production and disposal of hydrogen gas used in hydrogen electrodes can have environmental impacts, particularly in terms of greenhouse gas emissions.