Question

Why is redox potential important?

Answer 1

Redox potential is also known as oxidation- reduction potential which is denoted with symbol E. Redox potential is calculated from the concentration of reductants and oxidants present in the environment. The inorganic oxidants such as iron, sulphate, oxygen and nitrate and reductants are organic substrates.

Complete step-by-step answer: Redox potentials are used to determine the direction of reaction that includes electron transfer. Redox potential is more accurately the reduction potential. A substance which has higher reduction potential than other species, it will have the tendency to gain electrons from new species and if a substance has less reduction potential than other species, it will have the tendency to lose electrons from new species.
Importance of Redox potential
-Redox potential is also known as oxidation- reduction potential. It helps us in representing a tendency of a substance to lose electrons to an electrode and to gain electrons from an electrode.
-It provides whether the substance undergoes oxidation or reduction. Redox potential is calculated in millivolts or volts.
-It provides quick and easy characterization of the degree of reduction in a chemical reaction.
-It is also helpful in predicting the stability of the compounds that plays a very vital role in regulation of nutrients and availability of metals in soils and sediment.

Note: It is to note that redox potential is used to determine the direction of the electron flow. The oxidation potential of an electrode is negative of the reduction potential. The electrode potential is defined as the potential difference between the metal electrode and solution surrounding.