Elektrolüüsile

Elektrolüüsile is the Estonian term for electrolysis, a process that uses an electric current to drive an otherwise non-spontaneous chemical reaction. This is achieved by passing a direct electric current through an electrolyte, which is a substance containing free-moving ions. The electrolyte can be a molten ionic compound or an aqueous solution of an ionic compound.

When the electric current is applied, the positively charged ions (cations) in the electrolyte migrate towards the negatively charged electrode, called the cathode. At the cathode, these cations gain electrons and are reduced. Simultaneously, the negatively charged ions (anions) migrate towards the positively charged electrode, called the anode. At the anode, these anions lose electrons and are oxidized.

The overall result of elektrolüüsile is the decomposition of the electrolyte into its constituent elements or simpler compounds. For example, the elektrolüüsile of molten sodium chloride (NaCl) produces metallic sodium at the cathode and chlorine gas at the anode. Similarly, the elektrolüüsile of water (H2O) produces hydrogen gas at the cathode and oxygen gas at the anode.

Elektrolüüsile has numerous practical applications, including the production of many common chemicals like chlorine, sodium hydroxide, and aluminum. It is also used in electroplating, where a thin layer of one metal is deposited onto another for decorative or protective purposes. Furthermore, elektrolüüsile plays a crucial role in refining metals and in the production of hydrogen as a clean fuel source. The efficiency and outcome of elektrolüüsile depend on factors such as the voltage applied, the concentration and type of electrolyte, and the nature of the electrodes.