For an
ion-selective electrode cell, there is often a particular activity of the measured ion for which the emf of the
cell is independent of temperature. That activity, and the corresponding potential
difference, defines the isopotential point. The specification of the
ion-selective electrode and outer
reference electrode must be described. Comment: When an isothermal cell is used with identical reference
electrodes, the isopotential point is the activity of sensed species that gives zero
net
membrane potential, e.g. sensed activity is the same in the inner and outer (test) solution. Calibration
lines for different cell temperatures have different slopes, but intersect at a common
activity point. Cells with temperature gradients are not recommended.
Source:
PAC, 1994, 66, 2527
(Recommendations for nomenclature of ionselective electrodes (IUPAC Recommendations
1994))
on page 2531