The Process of Electrolysis Flashcards
All 6 cards in this deck
What is an electrolyte?
An ionic compound that is molten or dissolved in water, so its ions are free to move and it can conduct electricity.
True or false? A solid ionic compound conducts electricity.
False. In the solid the ions are in fixed positions and cannot move, so it only conducts when molten or dissolved.
What are the names of the positive and negative electrodes in electrolysis?
Positive electrode = anode; negative electrode = cathode.
In electrolysis, which electrode does each type of ion move to, and why?
Positive ions move to the negative electrode (cathode) and negative ions move to the positive electrode (anode), because opposite charges attract.
What is electrolysis?
Passing an electric current through an electrolyte so that ions move to the electrodes and are discharged, producing elements.
True or false? Electrons travel through the electrolyte to carry the charge.
False. Ions move through the electrolyte; electrons only travel through the wires and electrodes.