5.4 Electrolysis Flashcards
When can electrolysis take place?
When the ionic compounds are molten or in solution
What is an electrolyte?
The substance that is broken down in electrolysis
What is an inert substance?
An unreactive substance
How is the electrical circuit set up for electrolysis?
It has two electrodes at each end that make contact with the electrolyte
What are the electrodes often made of?
Inert substances that don’t react with the products
What happens at the electrodes in electrolysis?
The oppositely charged ions move to the electrodes where they are discharged to produce atoms
What ions are attracted to the negative electrodes?
Positive ions, such as metals or hydrogen (depending on the ions in the electrolyte)
What ions are attracted to the positive electrodes?
Negatively charged ions, where they lose their charge to form non metallic elements
What happens when molten less bromide is electrolysed?
The lead is produced at the negative electrode whilst the bromine is produced at the positive electrode
What is electrolysis?
The process of breaking down ionic compounds into elements using electricity
