alleryStart learning →Why is platinum a common choice for an electrode that takes no part in the reaction?
AIt is the cheapest metal available
BIt dissolves very slowly in acid
CIt has the highest density of all
DIt is chemically unreactive
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: D. It is chemically unreactive
1. Some redox couples involve species that conduct electricity poorly.
2. A conducting surface is still needed so electrons can enter or leave the solution.
3. That surface must not join in the redox chemistry itself.
4. Platinum and gold are chemically unreactive, so they carry current without reacting.
5. Cost is not the reason, since platinum is one of the more expensive metals.
_Source: OpenStax Chemistry (CC BY 4.0), Chs 7 and 17, section 17.2 Galvanic Cells_
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