It is sometimes necessary to compute E° for a given half reaction from other half reaction of known E°.
For example, the standard electrode potential for the oxidation of Titanium metal to Ti³⁺ can be obtained from the following half reaction:
Ti²⁺ + 2 e⁻ ⇌ Ti⁰ E° = -1.63 Volts ①
Ti³⁺ + e⁻ ⇌ Ti²⁺ E° = -0.37 Volts ②
Calculate E° for Ti⁰ ⇌ Ti³⁺ + 3 e⁻
My answer: ② is more spontaneous reaction than ①.
Reduction: Ti³⁺ + e⁻ ⇌ Ti²⁺ E° = -0.37 Volts ;
Oxidation: Ti²⁺ + 2 e⁻ ⇌ Ti⁰ E° = -1.63 Volts
Hence,
E°
rx= E°
red - E°
ox = -0.37 V - (-1.63 V) = + 1.26 V
As the E°
rx is +ve, the reaction Ti
0 Ti
3+ + 3 e
- is spontaneous. Is that correct?
My answer matches with author's answer.
But, Is my logic in answering this question correct?