Question

why is an acid or an ionic salt added to water in the electrolysis of water ?

Answer 1

When a salt of a weak acid or of a weak base is dissolved in water, water can partially hydrolyze the salt, producing thecorresponding base or acid

Answer 2

Under normal condition water does not allow ‘electricity to pass’ through it. This is because water does not have an electron or salt dissolved in it to allow ‘current to pass’ through it.  

Explanation:

• But when an acid solution or salt is added, then the water becomes a ‘good conductor of electricity’.  

• Under such conditions electricity passes and water is broken down into ‘hydrogen and oxygen’.  

• The acid normally used here is sulphuric acid.  

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