ENGINEERING CHEMISTRY (SH 103): Electrochemistry and Buffer

An Introduction to Engineering Chemistry

Welcome to the first module of Engineering Chemistry (SH 103). This foundational course explores the chemical principles that underpin various engineering disciplines. This chapter focuses on two critical areas: Electrochemistry and Buffer Solutions.

Electrochemistry is the study of the relationship between electricity and chemical reactions. It’s the science behind batteries, fuel cells, corrosion, and industrial processes like electroplating. We will explore the Nernst equation to understand cell potentials, delve into the mechanisms of electrode processes, and examine practical applications like lead-acid batteries, lithium-ion batteries, and solar cells. Understanding corrosion is also a key objective, as it is a major challenge in engineering design.

The second part of this chapter covers Buffer Solutions—solutions that resist changes in pH. This concept is vital in chemical manufacturing, biological systems, and environmental engineering. We will define buffers, understand their capacity and range, and look at their practical applications.