Which type of electrode is considered a current-producing electrode?

The Clark electrode is a type of current-producing electrode that is primarily used for measuring oxygen concentration in gases or liquids. It operates based on the principle of polarography, where a potential difference is applied across the electrode, resulting in a current flow that is proportional to the concentration of dissolved oxygen. This current production allows for real-time monitoring of oxygen levels, which is crucial in various clinical and environmental applications.

This design allows the Clark electrode to provide accurate and stable measurements of oxygen levels, making it an essential instrument in clinical settings, particularly in respiratory therapy and blood gas analysis. The dependence on current allows for the detection of even small changes in oxygen concentrations, supporting the precise monitoring of a patient's respiratory status.

Other types of electrodes mentioned serve different functions. The Severinghaus electrode is specifically designed for measuring carbon dioxide levels and operates differently, primarily using a pH change rather than direct current. The pH electrode, like the glass electrode, measures the hydrogen ion concentration and also does not produce current in the same manner as the Clark electrode. The ionized calcium electrode is focused on calcium ions, and while it does measure ionized calcium levels, it does not operate on the same principle of current generation used by the Clark electrode.