Electrolysis of molten salts Flashcards
Define Electrolysis.
Electrolysis is the process where electric current is used to create a chemical change.
What is an electrolyte?
An electrolyte is a compound that is in liquid form that is able to conduct electricity and have moving ions.
What are the electrodes made from?
Metal or graphite which conducts electricity to the electrode.
What are the two electrodes?
Anode(positive electrode) Cathode(negative electron)
Where does the electricity come from?
A power pack or battery.
What happens during electrolysis?
The positive ions called anions are attracted to the negative electrode called the cathode, whereas the negative ion the cations are attracted to the positive anode where they lose or gain electrons to form atoms.
Why can’t ionic compounds conduct electricity in solid-state?
As the ions are not free to move due to their strong electrostatic forces of attraction between them meaning that they cannot conduct electricity.
