Reduction of maleate dianion at a mercury electrode in aqueous solution. A CEEC or CECE mechanism?

Abstract

The reduction of maleate dianion at a mercury electrode in aqueous solution is investigated using rotating disc electrode (RDE) voltammetry. Candidate reduction mechanisms are shown to be CEEC, CECE, and CECEh and equations are derived, relating the dependence of the transport-limited current to the RDE rotation speed and the rate constants for the C steps, for each of these processes. The interpretation of experimental data in terms of the theories points to reduction occurring via a CEEC rather than a CECE, mechanism as previously believed.