Electrolysis Flashcards
(15 cards)
What does electrolysis mean?
Splitting up with electricity
What happens during electrolysis?
During electrolysis and electric current is passed through an electrolyte
What is the electrolyte in electrolysis?
The electrolyte is a molten or dissolved ionic compound. It must be molten or dissolved so that the ions are free to move.
Why must the electrolyte be molten or dissolved in electrolysis?
It must be molten or dissolved so that the ions are free to move.
Where did the ions move towards an electrolysis?
The electrodes, where they react and the compound decomposes
What is an electrolyte?
An electrolyte is a liquid or solution that can conduct electricity
What is an electrode?
An electrode is a solid that conducts electricity and is submerged in the electrolyte
Where will the positive ions move towards in electrolysis?
The cathode (-ve electrode)
Where will the negative ions move towards in electrolysis?
The anode (+ve electrode)
Electrolysis of molten ionic solids forms what?
Elements
Why can’t an ionic solid be electrolysed?
Because the ions are in fixed positions and can’t move
What material should the electrodes be made of?
An inert material
Why should the electrons be made of an inert material?
So they don’t react with the electrolyte
What does inert mean?
Chemically inactive
What is the anode made of?
Carbon
