Chapter 6.2 Changes at the electrodes

Question 1

What happens at the negative electrode(cathode)?

Answer 1

Positive ions gain electrons, so are reduced.

Question 2

What happens at the positive electrode (anode)?

Answer 2

Negative ions lose their their extra electrons, so are oxidised.

Question 3

What happens in the aqueous solution?

Answer 3

The less reactive element, either hydrogen or the metal, is usually produced at the cathode.

Question 4

What two things could happen at the anode (positive electrode)?

Answer 4

• Oxygen gas given off, from discharged hydroxide ions produced form water. Or:
• A halogen produced if the electrolyte is a solution of a halide.