ELECTROLYSIS
When an electric current is passed through a molten ionic compound the
compound decomposes or breaks down
The process also occurs for aqueous solutions of ionic compounds
Covalent compounds cannot conduct electricity hence they do not
undergo electrolysis
Ionic compounds in the solid state cannot conduct electricity either since
they have no free ions that can move and carry the charge
Key terms:
Electrode is a rod of metal or graphite through which an electric current
flows into or out of an electrolyte
Electrolyte is the ionic compound in molten or dissolved solution that
conducts the electricity
Anode is the positive electrode of an electrolysis cell
Anion is a negatively charged ion which is attracted to the anode
Cathode is the negative electrode of an electrolysis cell
Cation is a positively charged ion which is attracted to the cathode
, Electrolysis of molten compounds eg: Lead (II) Bromide:
When an electric current is passed through a molten ionic compound the
compound decomposes or breaks down
The process also occurs for aqueous solutions of ionic compounds
Covalent compounds cannot conduct electricity hence they do not
undergo electrolysis
Ionic compounds in the solid state cannot conduct electricity either since
they have no free ions that can move and carry the charge
Key terms:
Electrode is a rod of metal or graphite through which an electric current
flows into or out of an electrolyte
Electrolyte is the ionic compound in molten or dissolved solution that
conducts the electricity
Anode is the positive electrode of an electrolysis cell
Anion is a negatively charged ion which is attracted to the anode
Cathode is the negative electrode of an electrolysis cell
Cation is a positively charged ion which is attracted to the cathode
, Electrolysis of molten compounds eg: Lead (II) Bromide:
