On microelectrode ionophoresis

An equation for ionophoresis in large tip microelectrodes is derived from Nernst-Planck equations for the general case of a completely dissociated electrolyte. The relation between the release of ions and the applied electric current is mainly determined by two parameters: the transference number of the ions under consideration and the diffusional leak of the microelectrode. Also it is shown how the release of ions is affected by the concentration of the electrolyte within the electrode and that of the external solution. The equation describes the ionophoretic release of polyvalent spermine. In addition, new equations for tip potential and for tip resistance are derived.