Electrolysis of Aqueous Solutions (OCR GCSE Chemistry A, Combined (Gateway Science Suite)): Flashcards

Water produces $H^+$ & $OH^-$ ions that can react at electrodes

$H^+$ and $OH^-$

Less reactive ion

Ion oxidised more easily

$Cu^{2+}$ and $H^+$

$Cu^{2+}$ (Cu less reactive than H)

$Cu^{2+} + 2e^- \rightarrow Cu$

Solid copper deposits

When no halide ions present

$4OH^- \rightarrow 2H_2O + O_2 + 4e^-$

Oxygen

$H^+$ reduced instead

Halide ions like $Cl^-$