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 CECE_h 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.