Electrolysis

Electrolysis is the process in which electrical energy from a direct current, breaks down electrolytes.

When an ionic compound is melted or dissolved in water, the ions are free to move about within the liquid or solution.

• These liquids and solutions are able to conduct electricity and are called electrolytes.
• Passing the current causes the ions to move to the electrodes.
• Positive charged ions move to the cathode (negative electrode) 
  
• Negative charged ions move to the anode (positive electrode)
• Ions are discharged at elements and this produces elements.

Ionic compounds need to be in a molten state or dissolved in water where the ions are free to…