Redox potential

Definition

Redox potential, also known as oxidation-reduction potential (ORP), measures the tendency of a chemical species to acquire electrons and thereby be reduced. It is expressed in volts (V) or millivolts (mV).

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Redox potential indicates the electron transfer capacity of a molecule in metabolic reactions.
2. Higher redox potential means a greater tendency to accept electrons and be reduced.
3. In cellular respiration, redox reactions are essential for ATP production through electron transport chains.
4. Organic molecules with lower redox potentials act as electron donors, while those with higher potentials act as electron acceptors.
5. Enzymes like oxidoreductases facilitate redox reactions by transferring electrons between molecules.

Review Questions

• What does a higher redox potential indicate about a molecule's ability to gain electrons?
• How is redox potential measured and what units are used?
• Why are redox reactions important in cellular respiration?

Related terms

Oxidation:

The loss of electrons from a molecule, atom, or ion.

Reduction: The gain of electrons by a molecule, atom, or ion.

Electron Transport Chain:

A series of protein complexes that transfer electrons through membranes to generate ATP.