Open Journal of Mathematical Sciences
Vol. 7 (2023), Issue 1, pp. 35 – 88
ISSN: 2523-0212 (Online) 2616-4906 (Print)
DOI: 10.30538/oms2023.0197

Equilibria in electrochemistry and maximal rates of reaction

Tristram de Piro
Mathematical Institute, University of Oxford, Andrew Wiles Building, Radcliffe Observatory Quarter (550), Woodstock Road, Oxford, OX2 6GG, England.; t.depiro@curvalinea.net

Abstract

We consider Gibbs’ definition of chemical equilibrium and connect it with dynamic equilibrium, in terms of no substance formed. We determine the activity coefficient as a function of temperature and pressure, in reactions with or without interaction of a solvent, incorporating the error terms from Raoult’s Law and Henry’s Law, if necessary. We compute the maximal reaction paths and apply the results to electrochemistry, using the Nernst equation.

Keywords:

Gibbs’ definition of chemical equilibrium; Activity coefficient; Electrochemistry; Nernst equation; Maximal reaction paths.