Brainlag PlusHow a current splits an ionic compound, what forms at each electrode when it is molten, and the rules for which products form from a solution.
What electrolysis does
An ionic compound conducts electricity only when it is molten or dissolved: then its ions are free to move.
This liquid is the electrolyte.
- Positive ions move to the cathode (negative electrode) and gain electrons.
- Negative ions move to the anode (positive electrode) and lose electrons.
- The electrodes are usually inert (graphite or platinum), so they do not react.
The rest of this lesson and its 9 practice questions are in Plus.
Screen 1 of 3, free to read.
- 9 exam-style questions, marked as you go, each with a worked solution
- Anything you get wrong is saved to your flashcards