What is the first step in the cyclic voltammetry process?

In the cyclic voltammetry process, the first step involves applying a voltage in a controlled manner to analyze the current response of an electrochemical system as the potential is swept. The correct answer pertains to the establishment of the reduction potential, which is crucial for sensing how the redox couple in the solution behaves under specific conditions.

Specifically, the process begins with the application of a potential that allows for the reduction of the species present. At this point, the current that develops is related to the concentration of the analyte and the rate of electron transfer reactions. By starting at the reduction potential, the system can be evaluated effectively as it transitions through oxidative and reductive states in a cyclic manner.

While measuring current at a fixed voltage can occur later in the cyclic voltammetry technique, it is not the initial step. Continuously flowing current or mixing solutions might be part of setup processes but do not represent the fundamental operation that characterizes the first step in cyclic voltammetry. The focus on determining the reduction potential of the redox couple ideally sets the stage for subsequent measurements and analysis of the electrochemical properties of the system.