What does amperometry detect in a solution?

Amperometry is an electrochemical technique used to detect and quantify the presence of ions or molecules in a solution by measuring the electric current that is generated when a specific reaction occurs at an electrode. In this process, the analyte of interest in the solution is oxidized or reduced, and the resulting movement of electrons is translated into an electric current. This current is directly proportional to the concentration of the target analyte, making amperometry a highly sensitive method for detecting ions.

The success of amperometry hinges on the unique electrochemical properties of the target ions or molecules, which allows for their quantification in the presence of other substances. The technique is widely used in various applications, including clinical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, and food testing, due to its ability to provide rapid and accurate measurements.

Other options listed do not accurately describe what amperometry detects. Temperature changes, volatile compounds, and presence of solvents are not directly quantified by measuring electric current; they require different analytical methods that focus on varying chemical and physical properties. Temperature measurements would be taken with thermodynamic sensors, while volatile compounds might be assessed through gas chromatography, and solvents would typically be analyzed via various spectroscopic or chromatographic techniques.