How does the process of electrolysis work?

Electrolysis is the process of using electricity to drive a non-spontaneous chemical reaction. It is used in a variety of industries, including the production of metals, cleaning of metal surfaces, and in the production of chlorine and other chemicals. The process works by using an electrical current to break apart compounds in a solution, typically a liquid or a molten salt.

During electrolysis, electrodes are immersed in the solution, with one electrode connected to the positive terminal of a power supply, and the other electrode connected to the negative terminal. The electrode connected to the positive terminal is called the anode, while the electrode connected to the negative terminal is called the cathode. When the power supply is turned on, electrons flow from the anode to the cathode, causing chemical reactions to occur at each electrode.

At the anode, the electrons react with the ions in the solution, causing oxidation to occur. This reaction releases electrons into the solution, creating positive ions. At the cathode, the electrons are used to reduce the positive ions in the solution, creating negative ions. This causes reduction to occur. The overall process of electrolysis involves the movement of ions through the solution, as well as the transfer of electrons through the external circuit.