Chemical Sciences
Physical Chemistry
1889
AdvancedNernst Equation
Electrode potential depends on standard potential and reaction quotient.
By Walther Nernst
Chemical Sciences
Nernst Equation
1889 · Walther Nernst
Human Reviewed
84%
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Story PortalWho discovered this?Discover how Walther Nernst and others shaped this equation.Visual PortalWhat does it look like?See the equation come alive in the Visual Studio.Machine PortalWhere is it used?Explore machines powered by this equation — batteries.Math PortalWhat does it derive from?Trace the mathematical lineage from gibbs free energy.Future PortalWhere is it going?Solid-state batteries
Why it matters: Enabled batteries, corrosion science, and electroanalytical chemistry.
Discoverers: Walther Nernst (1889)
What does it mean?
Electrode potential depends on standard potential and reaction quotient.
Why should I care?
Enabled batteries, corrosion science, and electroanalytical chemistry.
Equation Compass
North — Prerequisites
West — History
East — Applications
South — Derivations
Variables & Units
| Symbol | Name | Unit | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Potential | V | Cell potential | |
| Standard potential | — | At standard conditions | |
| Electrons | — | Moles of electrons transferred | |
| Reaction quotient | — | Activities ratio |
Worked Example
Nernst equation for Daniell cell at non-standard concentrations.
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Electrode potential depends on standard potential and reaction quotient.
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