Electrolysis

Question 1

Why can’t an ionic solid be electrolyzed

Answer 1

Because the ions are in fixed positions and can’t move

Question 2

What happens to positive metal ions during electrolysis

Answer 2

Positive metal ions are reduced (they gain electrons) to atoms at the cathode

Question 3

What happens to negative ions

Answer 3

Negative ions are oxidized (they lose electrons) to atoms at the anode

Question 4

What ions are present in aqueous solutions during electrolysis

Answer 4

In aqueous solutions, aswell as the ions from the ionic compound, there will be hydrogen ions H+ ions and OH- ions from water

Question 5

What happens at the cathode

Answer 5

If H+ ions and metal ions are present, hydrogen gas will be produced if the metal is more reactive that hydrogen. If the metal is less reactive that hydrogen then a solid layer of pure metal will be produced

Question 6

What happens at the anode

Answer 6

If halide ions (group 7) are present, molecules of chlorine, bromine or iodine will be formed. If no halide ions are present, then oxygen will be formed from the hydroxide ions.

Question 7

what is electrolysis

Answer 7

passing an electric current through an ionic substance that’s molten or in a solution and breaks it down into new substances

Question 8

what is an electrolyte

Answer 8

a liquid that conducts electricity

Question 9

How to set up an electrochemical cell

Answer 9

-Get two electrodes they should be inert like platinum or carbon. Clean the surfaces of the electrodes using a piece of emery paper or sand paper

• From this point on, be careful not to touch the forced of the metal with your hands- you could transfer grease onto the strips
• Place both electrodes into a beaker filled with your electrolyte

connect the electrodes to a power supply using crocodile clips and wires