Abstract
The accompanying figure shows a simple arrangement for the electrolytic deposition of platinum upon electrodes for hydrogen ion work.
A battery of two dry cells, a, is connected in series to a commutator, d, by wires, b, and c. The commutator is connected to a single central anode, g, by wire e, and to the cathodes, h, by branching of the cable wire, f. The electrodes, g, and h, are loosely held in position by insertion through the holes of the flat cork, i, which is supported in the 100 cc. beaker, j, in such a way that the metal of the electrodes is immersed in the platinic chloride solution, k. The electrode, g, consists of a platinum foil connected to a short piece of platinum wire, which is in turn sealed into the 5 mm. glass tube. A single wire electrode would probably serve just as well here. The electrodes, h, were made by sealing 18 or 20 gauge platinum wire into pieces of 4 mm. Mett's tubing. The cable wire, f, is a piece of 16 strand electric wire such as is used in flexible extension cords. The core has been bared and the individual strands distributed as shown.
The arrangement has several distinct advantages.
1. Many electrodes may be prepared simultaneously at a great saving of time.
2. After plating is concluded the cork with'electrodes may be transferred to a 100 cc. beaker filled with distilled water.
3. A reserve stock of electrodes is always available. The electrodes thus prepared keep for several months in distilled water.
4. The apparatus is in stable equilibrium.
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