Electrolysis

What is electrolysis?

The process by which ionic substances are decomposed (broken down) into similar substances when an electric current is passed through them.

For Electrolysis to work, the ions must be free to move. Ions are free to move when an ionic substance is dissolved in water or when melted.

What happens during electrolysis?

Positively charged ions move to the negative electrode during electrolysis. They recieve electrons and are reduced.

Negatively charged ions move to the positive electrode during electrolysis.They lose electrons and are oxidised.

The substance that is broken down is called the electrolyte