Some Observations on Decomposition Voltages

The classical theory for the phenomenon of the "residual current" is rejected as unsatisfactory, particularly as applied to solutions of heavy metal salts. It is suggested that in such cases the residual current is due to the discharge of hydrogen ions rather than metal ions. The discharge potentials of the tetraalkyl ammonium ions from methyl to amyl have been determined and, in general, found to increase with an increase in the number of carbon atoms. The decomposition voltages of zinc chloride, mercuric bromide, cadmium bromide and silver nitrate in pyridine have been determined and compared with those obtained in aqueous solution. Existence of a complex silver anion is indicated.