CHAP. 11: ELECTROCHEMISTRY [CONTENTS] 347
Chapter 11
Electrochemistry
Electrochemistry is part of physical chemistry focused on the study of thermodynamic and
kinetic processes in the solutions of electrolytes and melts, and in processes related to electrolysis
and those occurring in galvanic cells.
11.1 Basic terms
11.1.1 Electric current conductors.
Electric current conductors are materials allowing for the transport of electric charge. Conduc-
tors may be divided into three classes:
- First-class conductors—the electric charge is carried by electrons; metals are typical
representatives of this class. - Second-class conductors—the electric charge is carried by ions; typical representatives
of this class are the solutions of electrolytes and melts (see11.1.2). - Third-class conductors—the electric charge is carried by both ions and electrons; this
class is typically represented by ionized gas (plasma).