What Does
Oxidation-Reduction Potential Mean?
Oxidation-reduction potential defines the extent to which a material will lose or gain electrons, thus causing them to be oxidized or reduced. For example, the more positive the reduction potential of a material, the easier it is to accept electrons (or become reduced). Conversely, the greater the oxidation potential, the greater the material’s tendency to lose electrons (or become oxidized).
Oxidation-reduction potential is also referred to as redox potential.
Corrosionpedia Explains Oxidation-Reduction Potential
Oxidation-reduction potential is commonly used as an indicator of the reactivity of various substances. This allows corrosion engineers to determine the likelihood that a particular system will promote electrochemical corrosion. This property can also be used to predict the corrosion protection ability of various inhibitors.
The reduction potential of aqueous solutions (or electrolytes) can be measured under laboratory conditions. During this method, the potential difference between an inert electrode and a stable reference electrode is measured by immersing them in electrolytes connected by a salt bridge.