Elektrolüüsirakkude

Elektrolüüsirakkude is the Estonian term for electrolytic cells. An electrolytic cell is an electrochemical cell that uses electrical energy to drive a non-spontaneous redox reaction. This process is known as electrolysis. Essentially, it's a device designed to facilitate the decomposition of a chemical compound by passing an electric current through it.

The fundamental components of an electrolytic cell include two electrodes, an electrolyte, and a power source. The electrodes, typically made of conductive materials like metals or graphite, are immersed in the electrolyte. The electrolyte is a substance that contains free-moving ions, allowing it to conduct electricity. This can be a molten ionic compound or an aqueous solution containing dissolved ions. The power source, usually a DC power supply, provides the necessary electrical energy to force the chemical reaction to occur.

During electrolysis, the negative electrode is called the cathode, and the positive electrode is called the anode. At the cathode, reduction occurs, meaning species gain electrons. At the anode, oxidation occurs, where species lose electrons. The ions in the electrolyte migrate towards the oppositely charged electrodes. For example, in the electrolysis of molten sodium chloride (NaCl), sodium ions (Na+) migrate to the cathode and gain electrons to form molten sodium metal, while chloride ions (Cl-) migrate to the anode and lose electrons to form chlorine gas. Electrolytic cells are crucial in various industrial processes, including the production of metals like aluminum and copper, the refining of metals, and the synthesis of chemicals such as chlorine and hydrogen.