IGCSE Electrolysis

IGCSE Electrolysis

1. electrodes

   • cathode
     • negative electrode
       • attracts positive ions
         • hydrogen & metals
         • gain electrons if touch cathode
   • anode
     • positive electrode
       • attracts negative ions
         • non-metals
         • lose electrons if touch anode

2. a process in which electricity is used to break compounds down into their elements

3. solution has to be liquid

   • to conduct the electricity
     • is called: electrolyte

4. example: CuCl2 (copper cloride)

   • Cu+2 goes to cathode
     • gains 2 electrons and becomes Cu, so copper is formed around the cathode
   • Cl-1 goes to anode
     • loses 1 electron and becomes Cl, so chorine gas is released above the anode
       • CuCl2 -> Cu + Cl2