Two electrodes dipped in a solution of sulphuric acid

In summary, when a potential difference is applied for a few minutes, the current through the specimen increases significantly even though the potential difference remains constant. This can be observed in cases such as two electrodes in a solution of sulphuric acid. This increase in current can be explained by the presence of an inductor in the circuit, which causes the back emf to decrease exponentially as the current increases.
  • #1
qim
13
0
"When applied for a few minutes after a potential difference is applied, it is observed that the current through the specimen increases substantially although the applied potential difference remains constant. Explain why the current should increase in this way."

Could I be correct in thinking that the question refers to the case of, say, two electrodes dipped in a solution of sulphuric acid, where a certain voltage across the electrodes needs to be present before any current will flow?

Any help appreciated.

qim
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Sure, but wouldn't any capacitor do just as well?
 
  • #3
If the only element in the circuit is a capacitor, wouldn't the current be at a maximum when the voltage is first applied, and soon decrease to zero once the capacitor is fully charged?

I think you're looking at an inductor instead. The back emf would be at a maximum when the current starts flowing, decreasing exponentially toward zero as the current increases to Imax.
 
  • #4
Whoops. That's what I meant. :smile:

I'm always getting things backwards.
 
  • #5
Not always. We all have our moments.
 

1. What is the purpose of dipping two electrodes in a solution of sulphuric acid?

The purpose of dipping two electrodes in a solution of sulphuric acid is to create an electrochemical cell. The sulphuric acid acts as an electrolyte, allowing the flow of ions between the two electrodes.

2. What type of reaction occurs when two electrodes are dipped in a solution of sulphuric acid?

The reaction that occurs when two electrodes are dipped in a solution of sulphuric acid is an oxidation-reduction (redox) reaction. The positively charged hydrogen ions from the acid are attracted to the negative electrode (cathode), while the negatively charged sulphate ions are attracted to the positive electrode (anode).

3. How does the concentration of sulphuric acid affect the electrochemical cell?

The concentration of sulphuric acid affects the electrochemical cell by altering the number of ions present in the solution. A higher concentration of acid will result in a higher number of ions, increasing the rate of the redox reaction and the overall conductivity of the cell.

4. Can any type of electrode be used in a sulphuric acid solution?

No, not all types of electrodes can be used in a sulphuric acid solution. The electrodes must be made of materials that are resistant to corrosion from the acid, such as platinum or graphite. These materials also allow for a higher conductivity in the cell.

5. What are some practical applications of using two electrodes dipped in a solution of sulphuric acid?

Some practical applications of using two electrodes dipped in a solution of sulphuric acid include batteries, fuel cells, and electrolytic capacitors. These devices use the electrochemical reaction between the electrodes and the acid to produce and store energy.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Chemistry
Replies
2
Views
889
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
4
Replies
112
Views
7K
Replies
10
Views
964
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
24
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
1K
Back
Top