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UPSC Civil Services (Mains)

Chemistry optional

  • 2 papers
  • 250 marks each
  • 3 h per paper
  • 5 of 8 questions, Q1 and Q5 compulsory

Paper I covers physical and inorganic chemistry.

UPSC Civil Services (Mains), Chemistry optional · 2025 · Paper I

Q4(b). Diffusion-limited current at an electrode

Question

Calculate the diffusion limiting current for the oxidation of an organic compound at an electrode in a quiescent solution. Assume six electrons are involved in the reaction and the thickness of diffusion layer is taken as 0.05 cm in an unstirred solution. Given: (i) Concentration of organic compound, C = 10⁻² mol L⁻¹; (ii) Diffusion coefficient of organic compound, D = 2 × 10⁻⁵ cm² s⁻¹.

Answer in brief

Limiting current density jL = nFDC/δ = 2.3 × 10⁻³ A cm⁻², that is 2.3 mA for each cm² of electrode.

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Coverslimiting currentFick's first lawNernst diffusion layerconcentration polarisationpolarography