If voltage is the potential difference then why do we...? (1 Viewer)

[Equilibrium1]

Im currently studying galvanic cells and calculating the standard cell potential. As such, I know that the standard cell potential is the voltage which is the potential difference between the two electrodes...

In that case, why do we add the potentials of each electrode? (and not subtract)

The term 'potential difference' is really throwing me off.

Thankyou!

 

[Riproot]

Because you really are subtracting.

One goes the other way (oxidises instead of reducing) and so you swap the sign, but in actuality you're subtracting it's potential reduction charge.

 

[Equilibrium1]

Because you really are subtracting.

One goes the other way (oxidises instead of reducing) and so you swap the sign, but in actuality you're subtracting it's potential reduction charge.

That makes sooo much sense now!! Thankyou sooo much *rep*