Potential Difference Compared to Hydrogen [ENDORSED]

[KDang_1D]

Why do we need to measure potential difference with reference to hydrogen? Why can't we measure the flow of electrons from the anode to the cathode as a value on its own?

[Chem_Mod]

As I discussed in class we are comparing/measuring the potential difference using a common reference so that we can use these measured standard potentials to calculate the potential difference between any two electrodes.

Same concept using sea level for altitude. Once you know the altitude of cities (wrt sea level) you can calculate the difference in altitude between any two cities.

[DarrenKim_1H]

I believe it's because hydrogen is the most standard element to use for measurements. I believe' hydrogen's potential is assumed to be zero at all temperatures