On Cu(Hg)/Cu(II) equilibria and reactions in aqueous sulphate solution

Combined thermodynamic and kinetic studies have revealed amalgam properties, solution activities, and diffusion data besides charge-transfer parameters and exchange rates for either step of the Cu(Hg)/Cu(II) electrode in aqueous solutions of xM CuSO₄+(0.5?x) M MgSO₄+H₂SO₄ (to pH about 2.5) at 25°C. The studies allow separation of mean ionic activities into convenient single-ion ones. The kinetic results demonstrate the consecutive two-step mechanism involved. Comparison is made to the solid Cu/Cu(II) electrode, and double-layer effects are discussed.