Uniqueness of Models

You can model impedance spectra various equivalent circuits. For example, a spectrum displaying two time constants

can be modeled by a number of different equivalent circuits.

You cannot assume that an equivalent circuit with a good fit to a data set represents an accurate physical model of the cell.

Even physical models are suspect in this regard. Whenever possible, verify the physical model before you use it. One way to verify the model is to alter a single cell component (for example increase the thickness of the layer of paint) and see if you get the expected changes in the impedance spectrum.

Treat empirical models with even more caution. You can always get a good-looking fit by adding lots of circuit elements to a model. Unfortunately, these elements have little relevance to the cell processes that you are trying to study. Drawing conclusions based on changes in these elements is especially dangerous. Empirical models should therefore use the fewest elements possible.