Statistical model for parallel processes at the metal-solution interface: Identifying the ionization mechanism

Ionization of metals in electrolytes is considered and the role played by i ntermediate surface-adsorption complexes is underlined. It is shown that st udying the total order of the process as a function of the system's paramet ers makes it possible to identify the mechanism of the metal ionization. Th e proposed model of concurrent processes at the surface is used to analyze and interpret experimental data concerning ionization of copper in a binary electrolyte. The obtained results thoroughly characterize the dynamics of the metal surface ionization.