Abstract:

The shortcomings of the graphic statements on electrode polarization curves and electrolysis curves in current physical chemistry textbook were discussed. The electrolysis curves were recorded using Pt as the electrode, and 1.0 mol·L^-1 KOH and 0.50 mol·L^-1H₂SO₄ as electrolytes. The key experimental phenomena in both low-voltage and high-voltage regions were discussed, which would be helpful for the profound understanding of the electrolysis process. On this basis, the electrolysis and polarization curves in the forms helpful for the physical chemistry teaching were suggested.

Key words: Electrode polarization, Overpotential, Decomposition potential