Question

What voltage is best for electrolysis?

Answer 1

1. Electrolysis is defined as the decomposition or splitting of ionic compounds into their respective ions bypassing the electric current into the solution.
2. The reduction of cations occurs on the cathode while oxidation of anions occurs at the anode.
3. The main requirement for the electrolysis process is the electrodes and the electric power source.
4. The voltage or cell potential is defined as the minimum amount of energy required for electrolysis, that depends on the individual ions to absorb or release electrons.
5. The preferred voltage for any process is the difference between the cell electrodes.
6. Example: Electrolysis of water; It is an electrochemical process in which the water molecules are broken down to form Hydrogen and Oxygen.
7. Hydrogen gas is released which can be used as fuel.
8. In the electrolysis of water, the minimum required potential is $1.23\mathrm{V}$, and also external heat or energy is required from the environment.
9. Oxidation (anode): $2{\mathrm{H}}_2\mathrm{O}\left(\mathrm{l}\right)\to {\mathrm{O}}_2\left(\mathrm{g}\right)+4{\mathrm{H}}^{+}\left(\mathrm{aq}\right)+4{\mathrm{e}}^{-}$
10. Reduction (cathode): $2{\mathrm{H}}_2\mathrm{O}\left(\mathrm{l}\right)+2{\mathrm{e}}^{-}\to {\mathrm{H}}_2\left(\mathrm{g}\right)+2{\mathrm{OH}}^{-}\left(\mathrm{aq}\right)$
11. Overall reaction: $2{\mathrm{H}}_2\mathrm{O}\left(\mathrm{l}\right)\to {\mathrm{O}}_2\left(\mathrm{g}\right)+2{\mathrm{H}}_2\left(\mathrm{g}\right)$