Required Practical 3:Electrolysis

• What is the purpose of the practical described in the video?

  To investigate what happens when aqueous solutions undergo electrolysis.
• What are the two aqueous solutions used in the electrolysis experiment?

  • Copper(II) chloride
  • Sodium chloride
• Why is it recommended to watch videos on the electrolysis of aqueous solutions before starting the practical?


  To gain foundational knowledge about electrolysis.
• What type of electrodes are used in the electrolysis of copper(II) chloride solution?

  Carbon graphite rods.
• Why are carbon graphite electrodes considered inert?

  Because they do not react during the electrolysis process.
• What is the voltage set on the power supply during the experiment?

  Four volts.
• What happens at the cathode during the electrolysis of copper(II) chloride solution?

  Copper is discharged and coats the cathode.
• What gas is produced at the anode during the electrolysis of copper(II) chloride solution?

  Chlorine gas.
• How can the presence of chlorine gas be confirmed during the experiment?

  By bleaching damp blue litmus paper.
• What are the products formed during the electrolysis of copper(II) chloride solution?

  • Copper is discharged at the cathode.
  • Chlorine gas is produced at the anode.
• What is the procedure for the second experiment with sodium chloride solution?

  Pour sodium chloride solution into a beaker, connect electrodes, and turn on the power supply.
• What gas is produced at the anode during the electrolysis of sodium chloride solution?

  Chlorine gas.
• What gas is produced at the cathode during the electrolysis of sodium chloride solution?

  Hydrogen gas.
• How can the presence of hydrogen gas be confirmed during the experiment?

  By collecting it and testing with a lit splint.
• What are the products formed during the electrolysis of sodium chloride solution?

  • Chlorine gas is produced at the anode.
  • Hydrogen gas is discharged at the cathode.