Question

On electrolysis, water splits into:

• A. positively charged hydrogen ions and negatively charged hydroxide ions
• B. negatively charged hydrogen ions and positively charged oxygen ions
• C. hydrogen and oxygen atoms having positive and negative charges respectively
• D. hydrogen and oxygen atoms having negative and positive charges respectively

Answer 1

The correct option is A positively charged hydrogen ions and negatively charged hydroxide ions

The electrolysis of water is the oxidation-reduction reaction of water that occurs when a voltage is applied to water. In this process, a reduction reaction occurs at the cathode (-) to generate hydrogen, and an oxidation reaction occurs at the anode (+) to generate oxygen.

1. In an electrolytic solution, water (H2O) has separated into hydrogen ions (H+) and hydroxide ions (OH-).

2. When a voltage is applied to an electrode in this electrolytic solution, electrons are supplied to the hydrogen ions at the cathode (-), causing reduction and generating hydrogen.

3. At the anode (+), the hydroxide ions are deprived of electrons, and oxidation occurs to generate oxygen and water.