C2 - Electrolysis Flashcards
1
Q
What is electrolysis?
A
Passing electric current through an ionic substance that is molten or in solution, to break it down into elements.
2
Q
What do electrolytes contain?
A
Free ions - the molten/dissolved ionic substance.
3
Q
Describe the flow of electrons in electrolysis.
A
Electrons are taken from ions at the anode and given to ions at the cathode.
4
Q
What happens as the ions gain/lose electrons during electrolysis?
A
They become atoms and are released.
5
Q
What is reduction?
A
The gain of electrons.
6
Q
What is oxidation?
A
The loss of electrons.
7
Q
What does electrolysis always involve?
A
An oxidation & a reduction.
8
Q
What does electrolysis mean?
A
Splitting up with electricity.
