ELECTROCHEMISTRY

Course objectives

In accordance to the first two Dublin descriptors, at the end of the course the student will have the knowledge of the following five points: a) the mechanisms at the basis of electrical conduction in the different types of materials (ionic, electronic and mixed conductors) and the factors that control this phenomenon; b) the phenomena that originate the electrochemical double layer; c) the thermodynamics and the working principle of the electrochemical devices d) kinetic factors that control the passage of electrical current in an electrochemical device; e) electrochemical analysis of the phenomena of corrosion The student will use the concepts grasped during the course of electrochemistry to realize electrochemical experiments for fundamental studies or for routine research. The course has also the finality of developing the communication skills of the student (fourth Dublin descriptor). This is realized through questions during classes and in the final exam.

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SERGIO BRUTTI Lecturers' profile

Program - Frequency - Exams

Course program
1. **Introduction to Electrochemistry (6 hours)** History and importance of electrochemistry Historical and theoretical foundations Applications of electrochemistry in modern chemistry 2. **Electrochemical Thermodynamics (10 hours)** Electrochemical potential and fundamental laws Nernst equation Concepts of Gibbs energy and cell potential Effect of temperature on electrochemical reactions 3. **Electrochemical Kinetics (10 hours)** Charge transport mechanisms Butler-Volmer equation Reaction rates and kinetic obstacles Electrocatalysis and surface processes 4. **Theory of Electrochemical Cells (8 hours)** Structure of an electrochemical cell Galvanic and electrolytic cells Components of the cell: anode, cathode, electrolyte Analysis of electrochemical circuits 5. **Analytical Electrochemistry (6 hours)** Electrochemical methods: Potentiometry, Voltammetry, Coulometry Application of analytical techniques for the determination of chemical species Advantages and limitations of electrochemical techniques 6. **Applications of Electrochemistry (6 hours)** Electrochemistry in energy materials Electrochemistry in organic reactions Electrodeposition and surface treatments Applications in biomedicine and sensing technologies
Prerequisites
**Prerequisites for Effectively Attending the Electrochemistry Course for the Master's Degree in Chemical Sciences** To ensure an adequate understanding of the concepts and techniques covered in the Electrochemistry course, it is essential that students possess a series of educational prerequisites and prior knowledge. The following prerequisites are recommended for effective learning in the course: ### 1. Fundamentals of General Chemistry - **Knowledge of atomic composition and molecules:** Familiarity with atomic structure, chemical bonds, and the periodic table of elements. - **Principles of chemical thermodynamics:** Understanding of the laws of thermodynamics, energy, entropy, and spontaneity of chemical reactions. ### 2. Physical Chemistry - **Thermodynamics and kinetics:** Concepts of Gibbs free energy, chemical equilibria, and reaction rates. - **Equations of state:** Understanding of equilibrium concepts and the models of ideal and real gases. ### 3. Fundamentals of Analytical Chemistry - **Analytical techniques:** Understanding of common analytical methods and their applications in qualitative and quantitative determination of substances. - **Principles of instrumentation:** Familiarity with tools and techniques used for chemical analysis (spectroscopy, chromatography, etc.). ### 4. Basic Electrochemistry - **Fundamental concepts of redox reactions:** Understanding of oxidation and reduction processes, electrochemical potential, and associated terms. - **Simple electrochemical cells:** Basic knowledge of galvanic cells and simple connections between the components of an electric circuit. ### 5. Mathematics and Physics - **Calculus and algebra:** Skills in solving equations and dealing with units of measurement, concentrations, and quantitative data. - **Basic principles of physics:** Understanding of principles related to electromagnetism and the behavior of electric currents. ### 6. Study Skills and Transversal Competences - **Critical analysis skills:** Ability to evaluate and discuss scientific articles and research in the field of electrochemistry. - **Collaboration and communication:** Proven ability to interact in group work and present ideas and results clearly and concisely. ### Conclusion Preparation in these areas will not only facilitate the learning experience during the Electrochemistry course but also contribute to a deeper understanding of the advanced aspects and practical applications of the discipline. Students are encouraged to refresh their knowledge in the mentioned fields to maximize their academic performance in the course.
Books
Wesley R. Browne. Electrochemistry. Oxford University Press
Frequency
Attendance to lectures is not mandatory but strongly recommended
Exam mode
"The final assessment will be based on an oral examination covering the content outlined in the syllabus."
Bibliography
n/a
Lesson mode
"The course is organized into lectures for 6 ECTS (48 hours). The lectures will primarily cover the theoretical aspects of basic electrochemistry."
  • Lesson code1022360
  • Academic year2025/2026
  • CourseChemistry
  • CurriculumInorganico - Chimico-Fisico
  • Year2nd year
  • Semester1st semester
  • SSDCHIM/02
  • CFU6