Electrolysis Flashcards
Why can’t solid ionic compounds conduct electricity in a solid state
Because the ions are not free to move
What happens when compounds are in solution or molten that allows them to conduct electricity?
The forces of attraction are broken this allows the ions to move.
What’s the name of the negative electrode
Cathode
What’s the name of the positive electrode?
Anode.
Where do positive ions go to
Cathode
Where do negatively charged ions go to in electrolysis?
Anode.
What reaction happens at the cathode
Reduction
What reaction happens at the anode
Oxidation
In electrolysis of aluminium oxide why must the anode be replaced regularly
Oxygen molecules produced at the anode react with graphite to form carbon dioxide
Why is electrolysis very expensive?
A lot of energy is required to melt the compound and allow the Electric current to flow.
What are aqueous solutions
Dissolved in water
What do water molecules ionise into
Hydrogen ions and hydroxide ions
In aqueous solutions which element is produced at the cathode?
If the metal is more reactive than hydrogen, Hydrogen will be produced.
In aqueous solutions which element is produced at the anode?
If the solution contains a halogen ion the halogen will be produced at the anode. If not oxygen.
Why is platinum often use as the Electrodes?
The electrodes are required to be inert (unreactive).
