Using an inert electrode

[405318478]

Hi all, I'm looking at question 6L.5.B. I don't understand why Pt is used as an inert conductor on BOTH sides. The answer key has Pt as an inert conductor even when there is solid iodine in the reaction. Could someone explain to me why Pt is used as in inert conductor despite there being a solid present in the reaction? Thanks in advance.

[AArmellini_1I]

I was a bit curious about that question too. The best reason I can come up with is that the solid included in the reaction is a product, not a reactant. Therefore it can't serve as the electrode initially because it hasn't been produced yet, so you have to have an inert electrode to initiate the reaction

[Elena Bell 1C]

Iodine is a nonmetal, so it cannot conduct electricity. Pt is used on both sides so that the electrical current will flow.