Nernst equation

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Nernst Equation

The Nernst Equation (pronounced: Nurnst Equation) is a fundamental principle in the field of electrochemistry, named after the German physical chemist Walther Nernst who formulated it.

Etymology

The Nernst Equation is named after Walther Nernst, a German physical chemist who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1920 for his work in thermochemistry.

Definition

The Nernst Equation is a mathematical formula that describes how the electric potential of an electrochemical cell changes as the concentrations of its components vary. It is used to calculate the equilibrium potential across a cell's membrane.

Formula

The Nernst Equation is usually expressed in the following form:

E = E0 + (RT/nF) * ln(Q)

Where:

  • E is the cell potential,
  • E0 is the standard cell potential,
  • R is the universal gas constant,
  • T is the temperature in Kelvin,
  • n is the number of electrons transferred in the redox reaction,
  • F is the Faraday constant, and
  • Q is the reaction quotient.

Applications

The Nernst Equation is widely used in various fields such as biochemistry, physiology, and material science. It is particularly important in understanding the behavior of ion channels in cell membranes and the functioning of batteries and fuel cells.

Related Terms

See Also

External links

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