Question

What is the value of universal gas constant in Nernst equation when the potential is given in volts?

(a) 8.314 J mol^-1K^-1

(b) 0.0821 L atm mol^-1K^-1

(c) 8.205 m^3 atm mol^-1K^-1

(d) 1.987 cal mol^-1K^-1

The question was posed to me in exam.

My doubt stems from Electrochemistry topic in portion Electrochemistry of Chemistry – Class 12

Answer 1

The correct choice is (a) 8.314 J mol^-1K^-1

The best I can explain: The universal gas constant is denoted by R and is expressed in units of energy per temperature per mole. Since volts is the SI-Unit of potential, R must also be taken in SI-Units which is J mol^-1K^-1.