Chemical Effects of Electric Current Flashcards
(18 cards)
Basics of Electrical Conductivity in Liquids
What is the difference between good and poor conductors of electricity?
Good conductors allow electric current to pass easily (e.g., metals like copper, tap water).
Poor conductors resist the flow of electricity (e.g., rubber, plastic, distilled water).
Basics of Electrical Conductivity in Liquids
Why does the bulb in a tester glow when a liquid conducts electricity?
The electric current completes the circuit, heating the filament of the bulb, making it glow.
Basics of Electrical Conductivity in Liquids
Why do some liquids conduct electricity while others do not?
Liquids with dissolved acids, bases, or salts conduct electricity, while pure liquids (like distilled water) do not.
Basics of Electrical Conductivity in Liquids
What is the role of LEDs in testers, and why are they better than bulbs?
LEDs are more sensitive and glow even with weak currents, making them ideal for testing low-conductivity liquids.
Magnetic Effect and Electrical Conductivity
How can you use a compass to detect weak electrical currents?
When a small current flows through a circuit, it deflects the needle of a nearby magnetic compass, indicating conductivity.
Magnetic Effect and Electrical Conductivity
What safety measures should you follow while conducting electricity experiments with liquids?
Use batteries, not mains power, to prevent shocks.
Avoid prolonged contact between tester wires to prevent battery drainage.
Handle liquids carefully, especially acids and bases.
Chemical Effects of Electric Current
What happens when electric current passes through a conducting solution?
It causes chemical changes such as:
Formation of gas bubbles.
Deposition of metals on electrodes.
Change in color of the solution.
Chemical Effects of Electric Current
What are the gases released at the electrodes during electrolysis of water?
Oxygen forms at the positive electrode (anode).
Hydrogen forms at the negative electrode (cathode).
Electroplating Process
What is electroplating?
Electroplating is the process of depositing a thin layer of one metal onto another using electricity.
Electroplating Process
In an electroplating setup, which electrode is connected to the positive terminal of the battery?
The anode (usually the metal to be deposited) is connected to the positive terminal.
Electroplating Process
Why is electroplating used in industry?
It improves the appearance, corrosion resistance, and durability of objects by coating them with metals like chromium or gold.
Electroplating Process
How is copper electroplating performed?
Copper sulfate solution is used, with the copper plate as the anode and an iron object as the cathode. Copper ions from the anode move to the cathode, depositing copper onto it.
Real-World Applications and Safety
Why should electrical appliances never be handled with wet hands?
Water is a good conductor of electricity due to dissolved salts, increasing the risk of electric shock.
Real-World Applications and Safety
Why do firemen turn off the electricity before using water to extinguish fires?
Water conducts electricity, and active electrical circuits could cause electrocution.
Real-World Applications and Safety
How can electroplating improve the lifespan of everyday objects?
Electroplating prevents rust and corrosion (e.g., zinc coating on iron) and enhances aesthetics (e.g., gold or silver plating on jewelry).
Extended Learning and Fun Questions
Why did a greenish-blue spot form on a potato during the conductivity test?
It was a chemical effect of electric current; the spot formed near the positive terminal due to chemical reactions in the potato.
Extended Learning and Fun Questions
What are some everyday objects that are electroplated?
Bicycle handlebars, kitchen taps, jewelry, car parts, and food cans.
Extended Learning and Fun Questions
Why does seawater conduct electricity better than tap water?
Seawater contains more dissolved salts, making it a better conductor.
