Electrochemical Processes

Ability to describe the modes of operation of electrochemical systems, the different types of ionic conductors, the interactions between ions in electrolytic solutions and the fundamental parameters and laws which concern ion transfer and electrical conduction in a homogeneous electrolyte phase.

Ability to describe the structure of an electrode/electrolyte interphase and explain the appearance of potential difference across it, as well as to formulate the condition of thermodynamic equilibrium for an electrode/electrolyte interphase or an electrochemical reaction.

Ability to describe the factors and mechanisms which determine the rate of an electrochemical reaction and control the operation of electrochemical systems under non-equilibrium conditions, as well as to express the rate of a multistep electrochemical reaction as a function of measurable parameters.

Ability to explain and implement equations for calculation of the ionic strength, activity coefficients, conductivity and related parameters in electrolyte solutions, as well as of the conductivity temperature dependence in electrolyte melts and solid electrolytes.

Ability to explain and implement equations for calculation of the standard emf of an electrochemical cell using standard electrode potentials data or thermodynamic data, for correlation of the equilibrium electrode potential or the emf with the activities of the electroactive species, and for prediction of the spontaneous direction of a redox reaction using electrochemical data.

Ability to explain and implement equations for calculation of the overpotentials developing during operation of an electrochemical cell as well of the operating potential of the cell, for a given current density.

Ability to clearly present in written as well as discuss solutions to homework exercises and problems related to electrochemical processes.