An inert electrode is a type of electrode that does not participate in the chemical reaction that occurs in the system. Its function is to provide an interface for the reaction and to conduct the electrons. Inert electrodes are usually made of platinum, carbon, or other metals that do not react with the electrolyte/Electrochemistry/Electrodes/Standard_Hydrogen_Electrode). They are used in situations where the reactants cannot function as an electrode, such as in the electrolysis of sodium chloride solution. Inert electrodes are also used in the Standard Hydrogen Electrode (SHE), which is an electrode that scientists use as a reference for all half-cell potential reactions/Electrochemistry/Electrodes/Standard_Hydrogen_Electrode). It is important to use an inert electrode in this situation because it will not react or participate in the reaction/Electrochemistry/Electrodes/Standard_Hydrogen_Electrode).