Electrolysis - Molten Compounds

• What does electrolysis allow us to do?

  Separate elements in insoluble ionic compounds
• What is an electrolyte?

  A liquid containing an ionic compound
• Why must ions in an electrolyte be free to move?

  To conduct electricity during electrolysis
• How would you prepare an electrolyte from copper sulfate?

  Dissolve it in water
• What must you do to prepare lead bromide for electrolysis?

  Heat it to create a molten liquid
• What ions are present in molten lead bromide?

  Positive lead ions and negative bromide ions
• What are the electrodes made of?

  Metal or carbon
• What is the positive electrode called?

  Anode
• What is the negative electrode called?

  Cathode
• Why do we connect electrodes with wire?

  To allow electrons to flow between them
• What does the term electrolysis literally mean?

  Splitting up with electricity
• What happens to bromide ions at the anode?

  They are oxidized to form bromine gas
• What is produced when bromide ions are discharged?

  Bromine gas
• What happens to lead ions at the cathode?

  They are reduced to form pure lead
• What forms at the bottom of the container during electrolysis of lead bromide?

  A layer of molten lead
• What is happening to the bromide ions during the process?

  They lose electrons and become neutral
• What is the overall process of electrolysis described as?

  Using electricity to convert ions to elements
• What are the steps involved in the electrolysis of lead bromide?

  1. Prepare molten lead bromide as electrolyte.
  2. Connect electrodes: anode (positive) and cathode (negative).
  3. Apply electric current using a power supply.
  4. Bromide ions oxidized at anode to form bromine gas.
  5. Lead ions reduced at cathode to form pure lead.
• What are the roles of the anode and cathode in electrolysis?

  • Anode: Positive electrode where oxidation occurs.
  • Cathode: Negative electrode where reduction occurs.