Question

Write four characteristics of electrolysis.

Answer 1

1. When electricity passes through an electrolyte, positively charged ions (cations) move toward the cathode, while negatively charged ions (anions) move toward the anode.
2. The number of electrons released by the cathode is always equal to the number of electrons absorbed or collected at the anode.
3. The products of electrolysis are formed only at the surface of the electrodes (cathode and anode), because the exchange of electrons takes place there.
4. Electrolysis is a redox reaction where reduction happens at the cathode (gain of electrons) and oxidation happens at the anode (loss of electrons) at the same time.