Standard Reduction Potential

The standard reduction potential (E°) is a measure of the tendency of a chemical species to be reduced, with the standard hydrogen electrode (SHE) defined as having a potential of 0 V. Standard reduction potentials are measured under standard conditions of 1 atm pressure for gases and 1 M concentration for solutes, typically at 25°C. The standard reduction potential can be used to calculate the standard cell potential (E°cell) for a galvanic cell by subtracting the anode's standard reduction potential from the cathode's standard reduction potential. Tabulated standard reduction potentials allow the prediction of the spontaneity and direction of redox reactions, as well as the identification of the better oxidizing or reducing agent.