How can the limit of the sweep in cyclic voltammetry affect the analysis?

The selection of limits for the potential sweep in cyclic voltammetry directly influences the range of electrochemical species that can be detected during the analysis. When the sweep limits are set, they define the potential range over which the electrochemical reactions can occur. If the limits are too narrow, only a subset of the species that may undergo redox processes within the sample can be observed. This could lead to missing vital information about other species that require higher or lower potentials for their oxidation or reduction reactions to occur.

In contrast, a broader sweep can encompass a wider range of reactions, allowing for the identification and quantification of multiple species in the analyte. Therefore, the selection of sweep limits is critical for ensuring comprehensive analysis and accurate interpretation of the electrochemical behavior of the sample being studied.