Abstract: Conventional cyclic voltammetry (CV) experiments for investigating the electrode reaction process of potassium ferricyanide are performed under static conditions, which inherently limits the ability to assess mass transport effects on reaction rates. While this approach yields thermodynamic parameters such as peak potential difference (△E_p), it provides insufficient insight into reaction kinetics, consequently restricting students’ comprehensive understanding of the reaction mechanism. To address these limitations in instrumental analysis teaching, we developed an innovative experimental approach incorporating Rotating Ring-Disk Electrode (RRDE) technology to establish a multi-parameter detection platform. The disk electrode scans the primary reduction reaction of potassium ferricyanide, while the ring electrode simultaneously captures intermediate byproducts through constant potential oxidation. By applying the Koutecký-Levich equation, we quantitatively analyze the competitive relationship between mass transport and reaction kinetics. Students gain deeper mechanistic understanding by calculating the kinetic current density and byproduct distribution ratio. Furthermore, optimized electrode preparation and reaction environment cleanliness enabled measured △E_p values to approach thermodynamic ideal values. This experimental design overcomes the constraints of traditional static systems and provides an innovative approach for connecting electrochemical education with advanced research. The improved experiment has been successfully implemented in our “Instrumental Analysis Experiment” course for third-year chemistry majors, reaching 176 students across six classes over two semesters.

Key words: Rotating ring-disk electrode, Potassium ferricyanide, Electrochemical kinetics, Mass transfer process, Koutecký-Levich equation