Electrolytic Cell

Overview

An electrolytic cell is an electrochemical cell in which electric current is used to drive a non-spontaneous chemical reaction, a process known as electrolysis. In this cell, positive and negative ions in the electrolyte migrate towards the respective electrodes when a direct current (D.C) source is applied. The positive ions move towards the cathode (negative electrode) where they gain electrons and are reduced, while negative ions move towards the anode (positive electrode) where they lose electrons and are oxidized. This movement of ionic charges facilitates electrochemical reactions, allowing for various applications such as electroplating and the extraction of metals

Questions and Answers

  1. What is an electrolytic cell?

    An electrolytic cell is an electrochemical cell in which electric current is used to drive a non-spontaneous chemical reaction, a process known as electrolysis

  2. How do ions move in an electrolytic cell?

    In an electrolytic cell, positive ions migrate towards the negative electrode (cathode) and negative ions move towards the positive electrode (anode) when a direct current (D.C) source is applied

  3. What is electrolytic conduction?

    Electrolytic conduction is the movement of ionic charges through the liquid brought by the application of electricity, which allows electrochemical reactions to take place

  4. What are some industrial applications of electrolytic cells?

    Industrial applications include the extraction of metals and electroplating, such as copper, silver, nickel, and chromium plating

  5. How long will an electrolytic cell continue to conduct electricity?

    An electrolytic cell will continue to conduct electricity as long as oxidation-reduction reactions occurring at the electrodes continue

Multiple-Choice Questions

  1. What is the primary function of an electrolytic cell?

    a) To generate electricity
    b) To drive a non-spontaneous chemical reaction
    c) To store energy
    d) To measure voltage
    Answer: b) To drive a non-spontaneous chemical reaction

  2. In an electrolytic cell, which electrode is considered the cathode?

    a) The positive electrode
    b) The negative electrode
    c) The electrode where oxidation occurs
    d) The electrode where no reaction occurs
    Answer: b) The negative electrode

  3. What happens to positive ions in an electrolytic cell?

    a) They are oxidized at the anode
    b) They are reduced at the cathode
    c) They remain stationary
    d) They are converted to gas
    Answer: b) They are reduced at the cathode

  4. What is the process called when electric current drives a non-spontaneous reaction?

    a) Oxidation
    b) Reduction
    c) Electrolysis
    d) Conduction
    Answer: c) Electrolysis

  5. Which of the following is an example of an electrolytic cell?

    a) Galvanic cell
    b) Down’s cell
    c) Fuel cell
    d) Voltaic cell
    Answer: b) Down’s cell