Electrolysis Of Molten Compounds

Question 1

What is the equipment we use ?

Answer 1

1. A big beaker ( has electrolyte in it- basically just a liquid )
   - the solution or liquid contains an ionic compounds allowing the ions to be free to move
   2.electrodes the anode and the cathode
2. Join the electrodes with some wire and some sort of power supply

Question 2

If a compound is soluble we do what but if it’s insoluble we do what?

Answer 2

If it’s soluble just dissolve it in water
However
If it’s insoluble we have to make it molten

Question 3

What are electrodes made out of ? And what are they

Answer 3

Metal or carbon
Solid conductors

Question 4

What is the positive electrode called ?

Answer 4

The anode

Question 5

What is the negative electrode called ?

Answer 5

The cathode

Question 6

How does electrolysis work ?

Answer 6

It splits up the compound using electricity
The electric current passes through the electrolyte such as molten lead bromide
We can separate the lead and the bromine

Question 7

How do the ions work ?

Answer 7

The negative ions will be attracted to the positive anode
The positive ions will be attracted to the negative cathode

Question 8

What is actually happening to the ions at the electrodes ?

Answer 8

Being oxidized at the anode
Being reduced at the cathode

Question 9

Why do we use an ionic compound in the solution ?

Answer 9

The ions are free to move

Question 10

Why would using a covalent compound not work?

Answer 10

Must contain ions, covalent compounds contain neutral ions