INDIFFERENT ELECTRODE Meaning and
Definition
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An indifferent electrode refers to an electrode used in electrochemistry or medical applications that is not directly involved in the chemical reaction or measurement being performed. It is typically used to complete the electrical circuit, providing a reference point for the flow of current or potential difference.
In electrochemistry, the indifferent electrode is used alongside the working electrode to establish a closed circuit necessary for the electrochemical reaction to occur. It facilitates the movement of electrons between the working electrode and the electrolyte solution, without participating in any chemical changes. The indifferent electrode is typically composed of a material that is chemically inert and has a known and stable electric potential. Common materials used as indifferent electrodes include platinum, gold, and graphite.
In medical applications, an indifferent electrode is used in procedures such as electrocardiography (ECG) or electroencephalography (EEG) to measure the electrical signals generated by the body. Unlike the active electrodes that are placed on specific areas of the body to detect these signals, the indifferent electrode is placed in a location that is less electrically active or distant from the area of interest. Its purpose is to provide a baseline reference for the electrical activity, ensuring accurate measurement and interpretation of the signals.
In summary, an indifferent electrode is an electrode that plays a supporting role in an electrochemical or medical process, serving as a reference point or completing the electrical circuit without participating in the chemical reactions or measurements being performed.
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Silent e., the e. employed simply to complete the circuit, which exerts no therapeutic effect.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for INDIFFERENT ELECTRODE
- undifferent electrode
- jndifferent electrode
- kndifferent electrode
- ondifferent electrode
- 9ndifferent electrode
- 8ndifferent electrode
- ibdifferent electrode
- imdifferent electrode
- ijdifferent electrode
- ihdifferent electrode
- insifferent electrode
- inxifferent electrode
- incifferent electrode
- infifferent electrode
- inrifferent electrode
- ineifferent electrode
- indufferent electrode
- indjfferent electrode
- indkfferent electrode
- indofferent electrode
Etymology of INDIFFERENT ELECTRODE
The word "indifferent" comes from the Latin word "indifferentem" which means "having no partiality or preference". The word "electrode" comes from the Greek words "electron" meaning "amber" (which exhibits a phenomenon of attracting lightweight objects when rubbed) and "hodos" meaning "way" or "path".
When combined, the term "indifferent electrode" is typically used in the field of electrochemistry or medical applications, where it refers to an electrode that does not participate in the electrochemical reaction and is used to complete the circuit or provide a reference point. The term "indifferent" is used to describe the electrode's lack of preference or bias towards any specific reaction or ion in the system.
