sc10, electrolysis Flashcards
define electrolysis
when electrical energy from a direct current supply decomposes an electrolyte
define electrode
a rod made of metal/graphite which carries the current into or out of the electrode
define cations
positive ions that are attracted to the negative cathode
define anions
negative ions that are attracted to the positive anode
what happens to an electron in reduction
gaining electrons
what happens to an electron in oxidation
losing electrons
what happens to an electrode in reduction
gaining electrons in the cathode
what happens to an electrode in oxidation
loss of electrons in the anode
why can’t ionic solids be electrolysed
ions are in a fixed position and cannot move
what happens when an ion reaches an electrode
they gain or lose electrons, forming atoms, molecules or elements
where do metals form in electrolysis
- at the cathode (negative electrode)
- as metals from there form positively charged metal ions
where do non-metals form in electrolysis
- at the anode (positive electrode)
- as non-metals form there from negatively charged non-metal ions
describe an ionic bond
Electrostatic attraction between positive ions and negative ions
why can molten and solutions of ionic substances conduct electricity
Ions are free to move and carry the charge
define diatomic
consisting of two atoms
