Electrolysis Flashcards
What does electrolysis require?
A liquid to conduct the electricity called the electrolyte
2 electrodes
What do electrolytes contain?
Free ions which are usually molten or dissolved ionic substance
What happens in electrolysis?
Electrons are taken from ions at the positive electrode and given to other ions at the negative electrode
Reduction is…?
Is a gain of electrons - RIG
Oxidation is…?
A loss of electrons OIL
What do half equations show?
The reactions at the electrodes - remember they need to be equal on both sides
What useful products come out of electrolysis of sodium chloride solution?
- chlorine - production in bleach and plastics
- sodium hydroxide- to make soap
What else can electrolysis be used for?
To remove aluminium from its ore
How does electroplating use electrolysis?
Eg. Silver onto a brass cup - make the brass cup the negative electrode to attract the positive silver ions
When a reaction forms a solid it’s called a…?
Precipitate - to remove evaporate it out
