Chapter C6 Electrolysis Flashcards
What does electrolysis mean?
Breaking down using electricity
What do you do in electrolysis?
Use a current to break down an ionic compound
What is the compound called that is broken down in electrolysis?
The electrolyte
What is the posture electrode called?
Anode
What is the negative electrode called?
Cathode
What are electrodes commonly made from?
Unreactive substance
Such as graphite
Why are electrodes made from unreactive substances?
So electrodes do not react with the electrolyte or products made
What happens when the ions in electrolysis reach the electrodes?
Lose their charge and become elements
Who was the first person to work on electrolysis?
Michael faraday
Do ionic compounds conduct electricity?
As a solid- no as their ions are in fixed positions
As a liquid- yes as the ions can move towards the electrodes
Can covalent compounds undergo electrolysis?
Only if they from ions when reacting with water
What is a half equation?
An equation that describes reduction or oxidation
Do a half equation for the electrolysis of Pb
Pb—-> 2E- + pb^2+
Complete the half equation for electrons being removed from negative ions for Br
2br- - 2e- ——> br^2
Why is electrolysis more complicated in aqueous solutions?
Because of the ions formed by water as it ionises