[AdityaDev]

Reduction half reaction : Cu²⁺+2e^- :rarrow:Cu(s)
I have a doubt in using the reference electrode.
Can you explain how reference electrodes are used?
For example if I have the calomel electrode (E_SCE=0.24V) how do I use it with the copper half cell? Are these reactions correct?
Cu²⁺+2e^- Cu(s)
2Hg+2Cl Hg₂Cl₂+2e^-
To get E_cell=0.24+E_Cu|Cu²⁺

[mjc123]

Your second equation should have 2Cl^- on the LHS.
E_cell = E_Cu²⁺/Cu - 0.24V (both electrode potentials being relative to standard hydrogen electrode)
If you want to work the other way, from a measured cell voltage to the electrode potential vs. SHE, then
E_{Cu²⁺/Cu, SHE} = E_cell + 0.24V