1. What is the Nernst Equation?

The Nernst equation calculates the reduction potential of an electrochemical cell under non-standard conditions. It relates the measured cell potential to the standard cell potential, temperature, and the reaction quotient.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Nernst equation:

Where:

• \( E \) — Cell potential under non-standard conditions (V)
• \( E^0 \) — Standard cell potential (V)
• \( R \) — Universal gas constant (8.314 J/mol·K)
• \( T \) — Temperature (K)
• \( n \) — Number of moles of electrons transferred
• \( F \) — Faraday's constant (96485 C/mol)
• \( Q \) — Reaction quotient (dimensionless)

Explanation: The equation shows how the cell potential changes with concentration (through Q) and temperature.

3. Importance of Cell Potential Calculation

Details: Calculating cell potential is essential for understanding electrochemical cells, predicting reaction spontaneity, and designing batteries and other electrochemical devices.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter standard cell potential in volts, temperature in Kelvin, number of electrons transferred, and reaction quotient. All values must be positive.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the reaction quotient Q?
A: Q is the ratio of product activities to reactant activities, each raised to the power of their stoichiometric coefficients.

Q2: What temperature should I use?
A: Standard conditions use 298K (25°C), but you can calculate for any temperature.

Q3: How do I determine n?
A: n is the number of electrons transferred in the balanced redox reaction.

Q4: What are typical E⁰ values?
A: Standard potentials range from about -3V to +3V, with most between -2V and +2V.

Q5: When does E = E⁰?
A: When Q = 1 (all reactants and products are in their standard states).