The chemical effects that occur when an electric current flows through a conducting medium

We know one of the most significant chemical effects as electrolysis. Electrolysis involves the decomposition of the electrolyte into its constituent ions, which migrate towards the respective electrodes.

At the cathode, which is the negative electrode, reduction reactions take place. The positively charged ions, known as cations, are attracted to the cathode, where they gain electrons from the electrode or from other species present in the solution. This results in the formation of new substances or the deposition of metals on the cathode surface. For example, during the electrolysis of water, hydrogen gas (H2) is produced at the cathode as the cations gain electrons.

On the other hand, at the anode, which is the positive electrode, oxidation reactions occur. The negatively charged ions, called anions, migrate towards the anode, where they release electrons to the electrode or to other species in the solution. This leads to the liberation of gases, such as oxygen (O2), chlorine (Cl2), or the dissolution of the anode material. In the electrolysis of water, oxygen gas (O2) is generated at the anode as the anions lose electrons.



Electrolysis has widespread applications in various industries. It is used for electroplating, where a metal coating is deposited on a substrate, providing corrosion resistance or enhancing appearance. Electrorefining and electrowinning processes rely on electrolysis to purify metals or extract them from ores. Electrolysis also plays a crucial role in the production of chemicals and the generation of gases for industrial purposes.