Electrolysis

• Electrolysis method;

  1. Firstly, using a measuring cylinder add 50cm^3 of copper chloride solution into a beaker.
  2. Secondly, insert the electrodes into beaker, making sure they don't touch each other, and attach crocodile clips onto each electrode and connect to a low voltage power supply with DC.
  3. Thirdly, set the power supply to 4V and turn on.
  4. The, using forceps hold litmus paper near to anode.
  5. Finally, turn off power supply and observe the cathode. Record observations of electrodes.
• The anode needs to be regularly replaced as it is made of carbon and reacts with oxygen to produce carbon dioxide, which will burn the anode away.
• Litmus paper is used to test for chlorine gas, if it is present it will bleach.