Diffusion Current Calculator

Ilkovic Equation:

\[ I_d = 607 \times n \times D^{1/2} \times m_r^{2/3} \times t^{1/6} \times c \]

Number of Electrons (n):

Diffusion Coefficient (D):

m²/s

Mass Flow Rate (m_r):

kg/s

Drop Time (t):

Concentration (c):

mol/m³

Diffusion Current (I_d):

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1. What is the Ilkovic Equation?

Definition: The Ilkovic equation describes the diffusion current at a dropping mercury electrode in polarography.

Purpose: It helps electrochemists determine the current resulting from the diffusion of electroactive species to the electrode surface.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Ilkovic equation:

\[ I_d = 607 \times n \times D^{1/2} \times m_r^{2/3} \times t^{1/6} \times c \]

Where:

\( I_d \) — Diffusion current (A)
\( n \) — Number of electrons exchanged
\( D \) — Diffusion coefficient (m²/s)
\( m_r \) — Mass flow rate of mercury (kg/s)
\( t \) — Drop time (s)
\( c \) — Concentration (mol/m³)

Explanation: The equation accounts for all factors affecting the diffusion process in polarographic measurements.

3. Importance of Diffusion Current Calculation

Details: Accurate diffusion current measurement is crucial for quantitative analysis in polarography and understanding electrode processes.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the number of electrons, diffusion coefficient, mass flow rate, drop time, and concentration. Default values are provided for common experimental conditions.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the significance of the 607 constant?
A: This constant incorporates various conversion factors and fundamental constants specific to mercury electrodes.

Q2: How do I determine the diffusion coefficient?
A: It can be measured experimentally or found in chemical reference tables for specific ions.

Q3: What affects the mass flow rate of mercury?
A: The capillary dimensions and the height of the mercury reservoir control the flow rate.

Q4: Why is drop time important?
A: The current is measured just before the drop falls, so the drop lifetime affects the diffusion layer thickness.

Q5: Can this be used for non-mercury electrodes?
A: No, the equation is specifically derived for dropping mercury electrodes.