topic_6_Electrolysis

Electrolysis

A chemical change caused by passing an electric current through a compound which is either molten or in solution.

Electrolyte

A liquid or solution that undergoes electrolysis; contains ions allowing the conduction of electricity.

Cathode

The negative electrode where reduction occurs, attracting positive ions.

Anode

The positive electrode where oxidation occurs, attracting negative ions.

Reduction

The gain of electrons, occurring at the cathode.

Oxidation

The loss of electrons, occurring at the anode.

Cation

A positively charged ion that is attracted to the negative electrode (cathode).

Anion

A negatively charged ion that is attracted to the positive electrode (anode).

Ionic Compound

A substance made of positive and negative ions, capable of conducting electricity when molten or dissolved.

Covalent Compound

A substance comprised of individual molecules that do not conduct electricity in any state.

Free Charged Particles

Electrons or ions that are available to move and conduct electricity.

Electrode Reaction

The specific chemical reactions that occur at the anodes and cathodes during electrolysis.

Redox Reaction

A reaction involving both reduction and oxidation processes occurring simultaneously.

Hydroxide Ion (OH-)

A negatively charged ion that can compete with halide ions like chloride in electrolysis.

Chlorine Gas

A pale green toxic gas produced at the anode during the electrolysis of sodium chloride solution.

Hydrogen Gas (H2)

A colorless gas produced at the cathode during the electrolysis of sodium chloride solution.

Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH)

The solution formed after the electrolysis of sodium chloride solution, containing leftover ions.

Half-Equation

An equation that shows the oxidation or reduction process occurring at one electrode in an electrolysis reaction.

Reactivity Series

A list of metals ranked in order of decreasing reactivity, affecting products formed at the electrodes during electrolysis.

Molten State

The state of a solid ionic compound when it is heated above its melting point and can conduct electricity.

Conductivity in Solution

The ability of ionic compounds to conduct electricity when dissolved in water.