16 Questions
What is the process that occurs when a direct electric current flows through an electrolysis cell under a potential of several volts?
Electrolysis
What is oxidation in terms of chemical reactions?
Removal of electrons
Where does reduction occur in an electrolysis cell?
Cathode
According to the ionic theory, what happens to electrolytes in solution or in the molten state during electrolysis?
They are present as ions
What is the function of electricity in the process of electrolysis according to the ionic theory?
To direct ions to their respective electrodes
In an electrolysis cell, where do negative ions carry electrons and discharge them?
Anode
What carries the current in a solution during electrolysis?
Flow of positive and negative ions
What is added to a chemical species during reduction?
Electrons
Where do electrons enter the electrolysis cell from?
The cathode
Which of the following is a requirement for electrolysis to occur?
The electrolyte must be in a molten state or in solution
What is the process called when electrons are removed from a chemical species?
Oxidation
Where do positive ions or cations combine with electrons during electrolysis?
At the cathode
What is the function of the anode in an electrolysis cell?
To allow negative ions to discharge electrons
What theory explains the process of electrolysis?
The ionic theory
What is the purpose of the external circuit in an electrolysis cell?
To provide a path for the flow of electrons
What is the minimum potential difference required for electrolysis to occur?
Several volts
Study Notes
Electrolysis
- Electrolysis occurs when a direct electric current flows through an electrolysis cell under a potential of several volts, resulting in a chemical reaction.
- Electrons enter the cell from the battery or generator at the cathode, combining with positive ions or cations in the solution, and the cations are reduced.
- Negative ions or anions carry electrons through the solution and discharge them at the anode, resulting in oxidation.
Mechanism of Electrolysis
- The process of electrolysis is explained by the theory of ionization.
- Electrolytes are present as ions in solution or in the molten state, and the function of electricity is to direct these ions to their respective electrodes.
- Electrolysis is possible in either molten state or in the form of a solution.
Reduction and Oxidation
- Reduction is the addition of electrons to a chemical species.
- Oxidation is the removal of electrons from a chemical species.
- Reduction occurs at the cathode, where electrons enter from the external circuit and are added to the chemical species in solution.
- Oxidation occurs at the anode, where electrons are removed from a chemical species in solution and go to the external circuit.
Current in a Solution
- The current in a solution consists of a flow of positive and negative ions toward the electrodes.
Test your knowledge on the chemical reaction that occurs during electrolysis when an electric current flows through an electrolysis cell. Learn about the roles of cathode, anode, cations, and anions in the process.
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