Measurement units — The standard redox potential of a substance under biochemical standard conditions (E°') is expressed in which unit?

Biochemistry TCA Cycle Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
  • A
    Milliampere (mA)
  • B
    Volt (V)
  • C
    Unitless (no units)
  • D
    Ohm (Ω)
  • E
    Joule (J)

Answer

Correct Answer: Volt (V)

Explanation

Introduction / Context:Redox potentials quantify the tendency of a chemical species to be reduced or oxidized and are essential for predicting electron flow and calculating free-energy changes in bioenergetics. Correct units ensure proper interpretation and use in equations that relate E°' to ΔG°'.

Given Data / Assumptions:

  • E°' is an electrical potential difference measured relative to a reference electrode at pH 7.
  • Potential relates to energy per unit charge.
  • ΔG°' = −n * F * ΔE°' (n = number of electrons; F = Faraday constant).

Concept / Approach:Because E°' is an electrical potential, its SI unit is the volt (V). Current (ampere), resistance (ohm), or energy (joule) are related electrical quantities but do not describe potential directly. Stating E°' without units is incorrect.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Recognize E°' as an electrical potential → unit is volts.Connect to thermodynamics: ΔG°' in joules is computed from volts via the Faraday constant and electron count.Confirm that reporting E°' values uses V or mV (e.g., +820 mV for O2/H2O).

Verification / Alternative check:Standard biochemical tables list redox couples with potentials in volts or millivolts; conversions to free energy use the relationship above, reinforcing unit correctness.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

a) Ampere measures current, not potential.c) E°' is not unitless.d) Ohm measures resistance.e) Joule measures energy, not potential; energy relates to potential via charge.

Common Pitfalls:Confusing potential with energy; forgetting that reported biochemical potentials are adjusted to pH 7 (hence the double prime).

Final Answer:Volt (V).

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