C6 Electrolysis

B6 Electrolysis

B6.1

Ionic compounds are broken down by electricity (electrolysis). The electrolyte is the substance being broken down. To set up an electrical circuit for electrolysis, dip the anode connected to the positive terminal of the power supply and the cathode connected to the negative terminal into the electrolyte with a gap in between them.

The electrodes are made of inert substances so they don't react with the electrolyte. 

Cations (positive ions) move to the cathode; anions (negative ions) move to the anode, becoming elements.

Ionic compounds don't conduct electricity when solid because the ions can't move to carry the charge and they're in a fixed position but when molten or dissolved or liquid, the ions can move and carry their charge.

Only metals below hydrogen are deposited from their aqueous solutions.

Covalent compounds can't be electrolysed unless ionised.

B6.2

Anions are oxidised (lose electrons) and cations are reduced (gaining…