Electrolysis / Flashcards
1
Q
Electrolysis
A
Breaking down of a compound using electricity (D.C current)
2
Q
Core practical
A
Can also be used to purify copper
3
Q
Cathode
A
Cations are attracted to the cathode and are discharged (reduction)
4
Q
Anode
A
Anions are attracted to the anode and discharged (oxidation)
5
Q
Molten compound
A
If the molten compound is only made of two elements, the metal is made at the cathode and the non-metal is at the anode
6
Q
OIL RIG
A
Oxidation
Is
Loss of electrons
Reduction
Is
Gain of electrons
7
Q
What forms at the cathode?
A
Positive metal ions are reduced to metal atoms
8
Q
What forms at the anode
A
Negative ions are oxidised to atoms or molecules
9
Q
Electrolysis of copper sulfate
A
- Copper is less reactive than hydrogen, so copper is produced at the cathode
- There aren’t any halide ions present, so oxygen and water are produced at the anode
10
Q
Why do ionic compounds conduct electricity when they are dissolved in water?
A
The ions can flow
