4.3.1 - The Process of Electrolysis

What is electrolysis?

The passing of an electric current through ionic substances that are molten or in solution to break them down into elements, ions are discharged (they lose/gain electrons) at electrodes to produce these.

What is an electrolyte?

The liquid/solution which conducts electricity.

What is a cathode and what is an anode?

Cathode is the negative electrode, anode is the positive electrode.

What occurs at the cathode and what occurs at the anode during electrolysis?

• Reduction occurs at the cathode.

• Oxidation occurs at the anode.

In aqueous electrolysis, which element is discharged at the cathode?

The less reactive element is discharged. Hydrogen is produced unless there is a less reactive metal. In which chase the said metal is produced.

Oxygen is produced at the anode unless what?

Oxygen is produced unless the solution contains halide ions, in which case halogen molecules are produced.