Chemistry: Electricity and Chemistry

Question 1

State that electrolysis is the chemical effect
of electricity on ionic compounds, causing
them to break up into simpler substances,
usually elements.

Answer 1

Electrolysis is the chemical effect of electricity on ionic bonds, causing them to split.

Question 2

Define electrode.

Answer 2

A conductor through which electricity passes.

Question 3

Define electrolyte.

Answer 3

Substance carrying free ions which can be used in electrolysis.

Question 4

Define anode.

Answer 4

Positively charged electrode that attracts the negatively charged substances.

Question 5

Define cathode.

Answer 5

Negatively charged electrode that attracts the positively the positively charged substances.

Question 6

Describe electrolysis in terms of the
ions present and the reactions at the
electrodes.

Answer 6

Electricity travels through the substance through the electrodes, so the electricity can break the ionic bonds, separating the ions within the substance. These now no longer ionically bonded substances will be attracted to an oppositely charged electrode to be gathered.

Question 7

Describe the electrode products, using inert
electrodes, in the electrolysis of:
• molten lead(II) bromide
• aqueous copper chloride

Answer 7

1. Lead and Bromine are separated

2. Copper and Chlorine