Electrolysis Flashcards
Why can’t solid ionic compounds conduct electricity
Because the ions are locked in place and aren’t free to move, so they can’t carry charge
Why do we melt solid ionic compounds for electrolysis
The forces are broken so the ions are free to move so they can conduct electricity
What is electrolyte
A liquid or solution that can conduct electricity
What does molten mean
Melted
What are electrodes made out of
Usually graphite or a metal
(Needs to conduct electricity)
What is the name of the negative electrode
Cathode
- covered with electrons from energy source
What is the positive electrode called
Anode
- lacks electrons
What is attracted to the cathode
Positive ions
What is attracted to the anode
Negative ions
Which electrode is on the left and which is on the right
Cathode - left
Anode - right
What happens when positive ions are attracted to the cathode
They gain enough electrons to become atoms
- gaining electrons is a reduction reaction
What happens when negative ions are attracted to the anode
They lose electrons to become atoms
- losing electrons is an oxidation reaction
Electrolysis of lead bromide takes place
PbBr2
What are the half equations for each electrode
Br has a negative 2 charge
Pb had a positive 2 charge
Pb ions will go to the electrode and gain 2 electrons to become Pb
Pb —> Pb^2+ + 2e-
Br ions will go to the anode and will lose 2 electrons to become Br atoms
2Br- - 2e- —> Br2
What is electrolysis
- Passing an electric current through a substance
- to break down the substance into elements
List the reactivity series
(Please stop laughing calling me a careless zebra instead try learning how copper saves gold)
Potassium
Sodium
Lithium
Calcium
Magnesium
Aluminum
Carbon
Zinc
Iron
Tin
Lead
Hydrogen
Copper
Silver gold