Oxidation-Reduction Reactions

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This is a series of lectures in videos covering topics in General Chemistry. They are conducted by Dr. Chuck Wight who teaches chemistry at the University of Utah.

Oxidation-Reduction Reactions
This General Chemistry lecture introduces the subject of electrochemistry by showing how to assign formal oxidation states to atoms in molecules. Reactions that involve changes in these formal oxidation states are called redox reactions, and they are prevalent in combustion. However, some systems allow us to physically separate the oxidation and reduction half-reactions and force the electrons to travel along a wire between electrodes, thereby allowing them to perform electrical work. This is the basis of the electrochemical or voltaic cell. Batteries
This General Chemistry lecture shows how to calculate the electric potential (voltage) for any electrochemical cell (battery) under standard conditions and non-standard conditions (using the Nernst equation). We discuss the construction and operation of the lead-acid battery used in cars, as well as the zinc-air battery commonly used in watches and hearing aids. Corrosion
This General Chemistry lecture discusses the corrosion of iron and steel. We talk about the $300B annual cost of corrosion in the U.S. alone, the electrochemical mechanism of rust formation, and 3 general strategies for preventing or minimizing corrosion.