Liquid Conductors [ENDORSED]

[Chris Freking 2G]

In 14.23a, the galvanic cell is constructed in the solutions manual as:

Hg(l) | Hg₂²⁺ || NO₃-(aq), H+(aq) | NO(g) | Pt(s)

I understand that liquids may be used as conductors. Can a liquid in the anode/cathode always be used as a conductor? If not, how can it be determined whether it can be used as a conductor or if Pt(s) is needed?

[Chem_Mod]

As I mentioned in class:

1) The only conducting liquid (at room temperature) is mercury.
Hg(l) was used in this example because it was part of the redox reaction.

2) Always use the conducting metal as the electrode if the metal is part of the half-reaction.