Electrolysis Flashcards
What is electrolysis?
The process of electrically splitting an ionic compound into its component metal and non-metal
Why can’t solid ionic compounds undergo electrolysis?
To undergo electrolysis, ionic compounds must be able to conduct electricity and therefore must be in either a molten or an aqueous state
Why do ionic compounds not conduct electricity when they are in a solid state?
Ionic compounds do not conduct electricity when they are in a solid state as the ions are held in fixed positions by the strong electrostatic forces of attraction, and are unable to move
What is an electrolyte?
the substance that undergoes electrolysis. These contain all the ions. The movement of ions is responsible for both the conduction of electricity and the chemical changes that take place. Covalent compounds are not electrolytes because they don’t contain ions
What is an electrode?
Electricity is passed into and out of the electrolyte via two electrodes. Carbon is frequently used for electrodes because it conducts electricity and is chemically fairly inert. Platinum is also fairly inert, and can be used instead of carbon
What is the anode?
the positive electrode
What is the cathode?
the negative electrode
What is oxidation (in electrolysis)?
the loss of electrons
Where does oxidation occur in electrolysis?
Occurs at the anode (+)
What is reduction (in electrolysis)?
The gaining of electrons
Where does reduction occur in electrolysis?
Occurs at the cathode (-)
What does OIL RIG stand for?
Oxidation Is Loss
Reduction Is Gain
What are the products of electrolysis of molten ionic compounds?
the component metal and non-metal
What forms at the negative electrode if the solution contains ions of metals low in the reactivity series?
The metal
What forms at the negative electrode if the solution contains ions of metals high in the reactivity series?
Hydrogen
