Chemitry Flashcards
Why can’t solid ionic compounds conduct electricity?
The ions are locked in place and are not free to move
How are ions held in place?
With strong electrostatic forces of attraction
What happens when an ionic compound is melted/dissolved in water?
The forces of attraction are broken and the ions are free to move
Why can ionic compounds conduct electricity when liquids/in solution?
Because the ions are free to move
What do scientists call these liquids/solutions?
Electrolytes
What does molten mean?
Melted
What are electrodes generally made of?
A conducting material, i.e graphite/a metal.
What is the name of the negative electrode?
The cathode
What is the positive electrode called?
The anode
Which ions are attracted to the anode?
Negative ions
Which ions are attracted to the cathode?
Positive ions
Why do the negative ions go to the positive electrode (and vice versa)?
Because opposite charges attract
What is the name of the reaction when atoms gain electrons?
Reduction
What is the name of the reaction when atoms lose electrons?
Oxidation
Define ‘electrolysis’
The separation of an ionic compound by passing an electric current through a molten or aqueous solution
