How would you determine the standard electrode potential of the system Mg2+|mg?

Using SHE as anode and Mg²⁺| Mg as a cathode we can measure the standard electrode potential of system Mg²⁺| Mg.

Anode: Standard Hydrogen Electrode

Cathode: Mg²⁺| Mg. (Mg electrode dipped in M MgSO4solution)

Cell : Pt(s), H2(g) | H⁺ || Mg²⁺| Mg(s).

Using formula

E^o_cell= E^o_right– E^o_left

E^o_left=0

soE^o_cell= E^o_right = E_oMg | Mg²⁺

Thanks & Regards

Pankaj Singh

askIITians Faculty

When we couplg electrode dipped in Mg2+ solution with SHE, the voltmeter reading will be equal to standard electrode potential of Mg2+|Mg system. We give negative sign to reduction potential because `Mg` acts as anode that is, undergoes oxidation.