Question

Explain electrolysis ​

Answer 1

Answer:

Electrolysis is defined as a process of decomposing ionic compounds into their elements by passing a direct electric current through the compound in a fluid form. The cations are reduced at cathode and anions are oxidized at the anode.

For example, acidified or salt-containing water can be decomposed by passing electric current to their original elements hydrogen and oxygen. Molten sodium chloride can be decomposed to sodium and chlorine atoms.

Electrolysis Process

Electrolysis is usually done in a vessel named ‘electrolytic cell’ containing two electrodes (cathode and anode) connected to a direct current source and an electrolyte which is an ionic compound undergoing decomposition, in either molten form or in a dissolves state in a suitable solvent.

Electrolytic Process

In the process of electrolysis, there is an interchange of ions and atoms due to the addition or removal of electrons from the external circuit. Basically, on passing current, cations move to the cathode, take electrons from the cathode (given by the supply source-battery), and is discharged into the neutral atom. The neutral atom, if solid, is deposited on the cathode and if gas, move upwards. This is a reduction process and the cation is, reduced at the cathode.