Question

Which of the following is not correct about an inert electrode in a cell?

• A. It does not participate in the cell reaction.
• B. It provides a surface for conduction of electrons.
• C. It provides a surface either for oxidation or for reduction reaction
• D. It provides a surface for redox reaction.

Answer 1

The correct option is D

It provides a surface for redox reaction.

Inert electrodes

The electrodes that do not participate in cell reaction but are used as a medium to conduct electricity through electron transfer are known as inert electrodes.

Metals like platinum, mercury & carbon (graphite) are used as inert electrodes

Properties of inert electrodes

• They do not participate in cell reaction.
• Inert electrodes provide surface area for reaction to occur, thus it provides surface for oxidation or reduction reactions.
• It provides a surface for conduction of electrons thus helps in conduction of electricity.
• Inert electrodes provide surface for individual half cells reactions i.e., for oxidation and reduction reactions separately; these electrodes do not provide surface for redox reactions.

​​​​​​​Hence, correct answer option (d).