Elektrolüüsitavast

Elektrolüüsitavast refers to a substance that can undergo electrolysis. Electrolysis is a process that uses electricity to drive an otherwise non-spontaneous chemical reaction. This typically involves passing an electric current through a substance in a liquid state, often called an electrolyte, which contains free-moving ions. The electrolyte can be a molten ionic compound or a solution of an ionic compound or acid in a solvent, such as water.

During electrolysis, the electrolyte is placed in an electrolytic cell containing two electrodes, an anode and a cathode, which are connected to a DC power source. At the anode, oxidation occurs, meaning a substance loses electrons. At the cathode, reduction occurs, meaning a substance gains electrons. The movement of ions within the electrolyte towards these oppositely charged electrodes causes the chemical transformation.

Common examples of substances that are electrolysed include water (to produce hydrogen and oxygen gas), molten sodium chloride (to produce sodium metal and chlorine gas), and aqueous solutions of metal salts (to purify metals or plate them onto other surfaces). The specific products of electrolysis depend on the substance being electrolysed and the conditions of the process, such as the voltage applied and the concentration of the electrolyte. Electrolysis has various industrial applications, including the production of aluminum, chlorine, and sodium hydroxide, as well as electroplating and electrorefining.