C3.4: Electrolysis Flashcards
Define electrolysis
A process where you use electricity to break down an electrolyte
What are electrolytes?
Ionic compounds that can conduct electricity when they are either in a molten state or dissolved in water
What is a molten state?
A liquid formed by heating a solid
Why should electrolytes be melted or dissolved?
Ions can move freely in the liquid
When melted or dissolved, the bonds between the ions are broken which lets electrolytes conduct electricity
Free moving ions
Why must you need a direct current power supply?
You connect the eleectrolyte to a direct current power supply, which pushes the electricity through
What could be the possible 2 materials that an electrode is made from?
Metal
Graphite
What is the purpose of an electrode?
Conduct electricity to the electrolyte
What are the 2 electrodes?
Anode - positive
Cathode - negative
What happens to ions during electrolysis?
Positive ions gain electrons at cathode and become atoms
Negative ions lose electrons at the anode and become atoms
What are positive ions called in electrolysis?
Cations
What are negative ions called in electrolysis?
Anions
What happens to ions as a product of electrolysis?
They form atoms or molecules of elements
What does it mean when ions have been discharged?
Ions have become aatoms or molecules at their electrodes
Define electroplating
Process that uses electricity to coat a metal object with a thin layer of another metal
Why may people electroplate?
To make them look nice
Prevent rust
What is the method to electroplate?
Te object you want to plate is connected to the cathode
The piece of metal you want to plate is connected to the anode
Electrolyte contains metal ions that will move and attach to the object
