Electrolysis of Molten Ionic Compounds Flashcards

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What is electrolysis?

Electrolysis is the breaking down of a substance using electricity.

What is meant by a molten ionic compound?

A molten ionic compound is an ionic solid that has been heated until it melts and becomes a liquid.

Why must an ionic compound be molten for electrolysis of a salt like lead bromide?

It must be molten so the ions are free to move and can carry charge through the liquid.

What name is given to the liquid that is broken down during electrolysis?

The liquid that is broken down is called the electrolyte.

What is the cathode in electrolysis of a molten ionic compound?

The cathode is the negative electrode where positive ions move and gain electrons.

What is the anode in electrolysis of a molten ionic compound?

The anode is the positive electrode where negative ions move and lose electrons.

In electrolysis of a molten ionic compound, which ions go to the cathode and what happens there?

Positive ions (cations) go to the cathode and gain electrons to form neutral atoms, often a metal.

In electrolysis of a molten ionic compound, which ions go to the anode and what happens there?

Negative ions (anions) go to the anode and lose electrons to form neutral atoms or molecules, often a non-metal.

During electrolysis of molten lead bromide (PbBr₂), what forms at the cathode and at the anode?

Lead metal forms at the cathode, and bromine gas forms at the anode.

During electrolysis of molten sodium chloride (NaCl), what forms at the cathode and at the anode?

Sodium metal forms at the cathode, and chlorine gas forms at the anode.

Overall, what happens to a molten ionic compound during electrolysis?

The molten ionic compound is split into its elements by the flow of electricity.

What type of electrodes are usually used in the electrolysis of molten ionic compounds?

Inert electrodes, such as carbon (graphite), are usually used so they do not react with the products.

Revision Notes
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