Chemistry Topic 5 Electricity and chemistry Flashcards
Define electrolysis.
- Breakdown of an ionic compound when molten or in an aqueous solution by the passage of electricity.
What is an Electrode?
- A rod of metal or graphite through which an electric current flows into or out of an electrolyte.
What is an Electrolyte?
- An ionic compound in a molten or dissolved solution that conducts electricity.
- A liquid that conducts electricity.
- The product made from electrolysis.
What is an Anode?
- It is the negative or reducing electrode that releases electrons into the external circuit and oxidizes during an electrochemical reaction.
- The terminal or electrode from which electrons leave a system.
What is the cathode?
- It is the positive or oxidizing electrode that gains electrons from the external circuit and is reduced during the electrochemical reaction.
What is an ionic bond?
It is the type of linkage formed from the electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions in a chemical compound.
How does non-metal become an anion?
By gain of an electron. (-)
How does metal become a cathode?
By loss of electron (+)
How are electrolytes made?
By melting or disslolving ionic compounds.
Which property of metal allows it to conduct electricity?
Freely moving electrons.
Why do compounds need to be in a molten state through electrolysis?
Ions can move free when molten.
What is an electroplating?
process of using electrodeposition to coat an object in a layer of metal
why is electroplating important?
- Creates a protective layer to reduce friction
- prevent tarnishing of a surface
- look better
- prevent corrosion by blocking oxygen molecules from the air to oxidise.
Define electricity
Stream of electrons.
What is an inert electrode?
- An electrode that serves only as a source or sink for electrons without playing a chemical role in the electrode reaction.
