IUPAC Cell Representation

The galvanic cell mentioned above is represented in a short IUPAC cell notation as follows:

It is important to note that:

1. First of all the anode (electrode of the anode half cell) is written. In the above case, it is Zn.

2. After the anode, the electrolyte of the anode should be written with concentration. In this case it is ZnSO₄ with concentration as C₁.

3. A slash (|) is put in between the Zn rod and the electrolyte. This slash denotes a surface barrier between the two as they exist in different phases.

4. Then we indicate the presence of a salt bridge by a double slash (||).

5. Now, we write the electrolyte of the cathode half-cell which is CuSO₄ with its concentration which is C₂ .

6. Finally we write the cathode electrode of the cathode half – cell .

7. A slash (|) between the electrolyte and the electrode in the cathode half – cell.

8. In case of a gas, the gas to be indicated after the electrode in case of anode and before the electrode in case of cathode.

Example: Pt , H₂/H⁺ or H+|H₂, Pt.

Also Read :

→ Electrolysis → Faraday’s First Law of Electrolysis → Faraday’s second Law of Electrolysis → Electrode Potential → Electrochemical Series → Galvanic Cells → The Nernst Equation → Standard Electrode Potential

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