overpotential Definition
- 1the extra potential required to drive an electrode reaction at a certain rate compared to the theoretical potential of the same reaction
- 2the difference between the actual potential required to drive a reaction and the thermodynamic potential of the reaction
Using overpotential: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "overpotential" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The overpotential of the battery was too high, causing it to lose energy quickly.
Example
Overpotential is a major factor in determining the efficiency of electrochemical reactions.
Example
The researchers found that adding a catalyst could significantly reduce the overpotential of the reaction.
Summary: overpotential in Brief
The term 'overpotential' [oh-ver-poh-ten-shuhl] refers to the extra potential required to drive an electrode reaction at a certain rate compared to the theoretical potential of the same reaction. It is also the difference between the actual potential required to drive a reaction and the thermodynamic potential of the reaction. Overpotential is a major factor in determining the efficiency of electrochemical reactions.
